The National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital in Agargaon, Dhaka has finally resumed full operations after an 18-day standstill.
From the morning of Saturday, all regular services—including the outpatient department—resumed across the hospital. Doctors, nurses, and staff have returned to work, and the premises have once again become lively with the movement of patients and their attendants.
Dr Zakia Sultana Neela, assistant professor at the institute and coordinator for the treatment of the injured, told various media outlets that normal services have resumed in all departments. Doctors and nurses are performing their duties as before.
“Everything is now normal. We are committed to restoring the previous sense of trust between patients and healthcare workers, replacing the earlier unrest.”
Patients have expressed relief at the full resumption of services. Abdul Malek Ripon, who came from Comilla, said: “Last week, I had to return without treatment for my son. But today, I was able to consult at the outpatient department without any trouble.”
Several other patients also confirmed that they are now receiving regular services.
On May 28, a clash broke out between doctors, nurses, and injured freedom fighters undergoing treatment at the hospital. Several hospital staff members were injured in the incident.
Due to concerns over safety, the hospital had been practically non-functional since May 29. Emergency services resumed on June 4, and limited outpatient services began on June 12. Full operations restarted from Saturday.