Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today visited the National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute to inquire about the treatment of patients injured in the recent jet crash into Milestone School and College in Uttara. He arrived at the hospital at 9:10 pm and engaged directly with the institute’s director, Professor Mohammad Nasiruddin, to understand the current condition of the patients.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Nasiruddin explained that the patients are being treated in consultation with the Multidisciplinary Consultation Board. Evaluations are conducted following international protocols, with input from both Bangladeshi doctors and foreign experts, to ensure optimal medical service. The current patient assessment identifies four critical, nine severe, and 23 intermediate cases at the Burn Institute, though this assessment is subject to change based on patient conditions.
During the visit, the Chief Adviser inquired about the necessity of additional equipment, tools, or medicines for patient care. Prof Nasiruddin assured him that the government is adequately providing all necessary resources. Additionally, equipment needed from abroad has been procured by a Singaporean medical team.
Special Assistant Professor Md. Sayedur Rahman provided a detailed account of the initial response to the incident. Burn patients were first taken to nearby hospitals for quick first aid before being transferred to the Burn Institute and the Combined Military Hospital. The rapid patient transfer to various hospitals initially caused confusion regarding the number of casualties. DNA profiling was required to identify several remains, which delayed the process.
Prof Sayedur also highlighted the shortage of ambulances during patient transfers, exposing limitations in the country’s emergency healthcare system. In response, the Chief Adviser instructed the immediate submission of a proposal to address these issues and promised prompt action.
Prof Yunus emphasized the importance of mental health counseling for the families affected by the incident to help them cope with trauma. He directed authorities to collaborate with experts and include all affected families in this process. Furthermore, he instructed the institute director to ensure the well-being of the patients’ close relatives during their hospital stay.
Expressing his gratitude, Prof Yunus thanked the medical professionals and international personnel involved in patient care during this crisis. Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum accompanied him on his visit to the burn institute.