A one-month-old infant died due to a lack of oxygen at Baghaichari upazila Health Complex in Rangamati district on Friday morning.
The deceased was identified as Rimli Chakma.
The child's father, Riton Chakma and other relatives alleged that there were no oxygen cylinders available at the hospital, which delayed necessary treatment.
Later, CPR was administered as an alternative measure to save the baby, but the attempt failed.
On-duty doctor of the hospital, Dr. Debashish, declined to comment on the matter.
Ambulance driver Anupam Chakma said, "The ambulance’s wheels and battery are damaged, so patient transport service is suspended. The RMO is not available and without funds, we can’t replace the wheels or battery. If I had personal money, I would have bought them myself. It feels terrible seeing patients suffer."
Baghaichari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shirin Akhter confirmed the incident.
She said that the hospital is facing not only a shortage of oxygen cylinders but also a shortage of doctors. There is only one ambulance, which is out of service. Although there should be 16 doctors, only 4 are currently present and even they are not regularly available. Despite repeatedly informing higher authorities, no action has been taken.
When contacted about the situation, Rangamati Civil Surgeon Dr. Nuyen Khisa said that one medical officer has been assigned to Baghaichari Health Complex, but he has not yet joined. The hospital lacks a responsible administrative head. Despite repeated requests, Family Planning Officer has also not joined.
He added, “Due to their long-standing service, perhaps these officials have influential backing. They are not short on money, so they show no dedication to their job. They know their jobs are secure for at least 3–4 more years, which may be why they act this way.”
Moreover, the hospital’s infrastructure is in a dilapidated state. Despite multiple repairs, no significant improvement has been achieved.
The hospital also lacks safe drinking water and has no backup generator during power outages.
Local public representatives have demanded the urgent construction of a new hospital building and the strengthening of quality medical services.
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