The newly-constructed building at Chaugachha Upazila Model Hospital in Jashore has remained unused for 18 months, despite being completed at a cost of Tk 38 crore.

The six-storey building, built to upgrade the hospital from 50 to 100 beds, was completed on September 19, 2023. Although construction began on April 29, 2021 under the supervision of the Health Engineering Department, hospital activities have yet to begin due to the lack of administrative approval.

In the absence of use, the building's doors, windows, and furniture are deteriorating. Patients continue to suffer due to overcrowding in the existing facility, with many forced to receive treatment on the floor and verandah of the ward.

Of the total expenditure, Tk 21.46 crore was spent on the main hospital building and Tk 2.32 crore on installing an oxygen plant and supply lines.

Locals expressed frustration, saying the hospital regularly accommodates more patients than its current 50-bed capacity. They believe that opening the new building would greatly alleviate patients' suffering.

Patients such as Kajal Rekha and Lima Khatun said the hospital's environment is unhygienic and congested, and they face difficulties due to severe shortage of space.

Dr Anwarul Abedin, a medical officer at the hospital, said the crisis is compounded by a shortage of doctors.

He stressed the urgency of opening the new building and filling vacant medical posts.

Nazmul Haque, executive of engineer of Health Engineering Department in Jashore, said the project work has been completed and the building has been handed over to the health department. "Now all the responsibility lies with them," he said.

Dr Ahsanul Mizan Rumi, health and family planning officer in Chaugachha upazila, said the hospital cannot be officially upgraded without administrative approval, and essential resources like furniture, beds, and manpower are still lacking.

Jashore Civil Surgeon Dr Masud Rana said letters have been sent to the health department multiple times seeking approval.

"Regular communication is ongoing. I think the approval may be given this month," he added.

According to Dr Mustafiqur Rahman, joint secretary to the health ministry, steps are being taken regarding the necessary approval for the hospital.