Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) restarted the orthopaedic emergency unit yesterday to provide round the clock emergency service to the trauma patients.

Health Minister Prof AFM Ruhal Haque inaugurated the 15-bed unit on the ground floor at Block D. The unit has two operation theatres and necessary equipment and manpower.

Vice Chancellor Prof Pran Gopal Datta and Secretary General of Bangladesh Medical Association Prof Dr Sharfuddin Ahmed were present on the occasion.

While talking to reporters after inaugurating the unit Prof Ruhal said the government is giving priority to ensuring emergency services at all the public hospitals.

He said the government has taken steps to expand emergency services to the district sadar hospitals. To assess the requirements for strengthening emergency services at the hospitals, World Health Organisation (WHO) is providing technical support to Dhaka Medical College and Hospital and two district sadar hospitals, he added.

Prof Pran Gopal said the trauma patients at the orthopedic emergency unit would also get other specialised services if needed.

During the previous Awami League government Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the unit in April in 2001 but the BNP-led four-party alliance government did not continue its activities, Prof Pran Gopal said.