CHAR FASSON, BHOLA, June 5: Even during the extended Eid-ul-Azha holidays, trained midwives have continued providing uninterrupted maternal healthcare services at union-level health and family welfare centres across Bhola's remote char areas.
Under a project supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and implemented by Partners in Health and Development (PHD), maternal healthcare services remained operational at eight union health and family welfare centres in Char Fasson, Monpura and other upazilas of Bhola District.
Since January 2025, 24/7 services have been provided at centres in Char Kalmi, Rasulpur and Char Kukri-Mukri of Char Fasson Upazila; Sakuchia of Monpura; Farazganj of Lalmohan; Chanchra of Tazumuddin; Char Pata of Daulatkhan; and West Ilisha of Bhola Sadar Upazila.
These facilities are providing free antenatal care (ANC), safe delivery services, postnatal care (PNC), family planning services, and initial screening for cervical cancer among women.
During the Eid holidays, the eight centres recorded 45 normal deliveries, while 143 pregnant women received antenatal care and 99 mothers received postnatal services.
Officials said the uninterrupted services ensured access to emergency maternal healthcare even during holidays, particularly benefiting women in hard-to-reach char areas.
Service providers said trained midwives are working with dedication to ensure quality maternal healthcare reaches women at the grassroots level. The continued operation of these centres during the holiday period has brought relief and satisfaction among local residents.
Beneficiaries said easy access to essential healthcare during holidays has significantly reduced health risks for mothers and newborns, contributing to safer childbirth.
Officials added that the initiative will continue in the future with support from the government, local administration and communities to ensure quality and timely maternal healthcare for marginalised populations.
They said the round-the-clock service plays a crucial role in ensuring safe motherhood and healthy newborns in the remote char regions.
