Renowned economist, Professor Anu Muhammad suffered injuries after his left toes were severed in a train accident at Khilgaon railway gate on Saturday.
Professor Anu, also serving as the member secretary of the national committee to protect oil, gas, mineral resources, power, and ports, was rescued and promptly transported to Dhaka Medical College Hospital’s (DMCH) emergency unit.
Inspector Bachchu Mia, in-charge of the police camp at DMCH, confirmed the incident, stating that Professor Anu Muhammad had been admitted to the hospital with injuries to his left leg and is currently receiving treatment.
Dr Mohammad Alauddin, the resident doctor at the casualty department of DMCH, informed reporters that Anu Muhammad had sustained significant damage to both feet, and examinations are currently underway.
Additionally, doctors from the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery have been called in to assist with his treatment.
Anu Muhammad had traveled to Dinajpur on Friday to attend a memorial service and was returning to Dhaka on Sunday via the Ekota Express train after participating in a meeting on Saturday.
Upon the train’s arrival at Khilgaon around 11am, Anu Muhammad slipped while disembarking from the slowly moving train, causing both of his legs to come into contact with the wheels.
Mahatab Uddin Ahmed, who brought him to the hospital, recounted the incident, said: “Professor Anu slipped under the train’s wheels at Khilgaon, leading to the amputation of all toes on his left foot.”
Reacting to the news, Jahangirnagar University economics department lecturer Istiaq Raihan said they are closely monitoring Professor Anu Muhammad’s condition and awaiting further details.
Brig Gen Md Asaduzzaman, director of Dhaka Medical College, said: “The injury to his left leg is comparatively severe. A portion of one toe on his left foot has been lost at the time of the accident. We are trying to preserve the other fingers. A team comprising a plastic surgeon, general surgeon, and orthopaedic surgeon has provided treatment. Another board will convene tomorrow (Monday) or the day after to decide on the next medical steps.”
Our Dhaka University correspondent Mahathir Mohammed contributed to the piece