Dhaka Medical College to be modernised, project cost Tk 1,164 crore

The government has taken an initiative to modernise the infrastructure of Dhaka Medical College, one of the country's most important medical and teaching institutions. A project worth Tk 1,164 crore has been undertaken to address the challenges of patient overload, old and dilapidated buildings, and student accommodation shortages.

The proposed project is set to be presented at the meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) on Wednesday, August 19. If approved, implementation is expected to begin this year, with the Department of Health Education aiming to complete the project by 2030.

As part of the project, a modern academic building, new residential halls for students, and residential facilities for teachers will be constructed. Eco-friendly features such as waste management, landscaping, solar power and rainwater harvesting will also be incorporated. Planners believe these developments will enhance medical education and research opportunities.

A major component of the project is the construction of a 15-storey academic building with three basements, which will include four 300-seat lecture theatres and two examination halls. To address student accommodation shortages, an 800-capacity 15-storey dormitory will be built. A similar building will provide residential facilities for teachers.

The campus will also see the construction of a four-storey mosque with capacity for around 800 worshippers, along with fire hydrants, modern lifts, waste management systems and internal road improvements. Additionally, solar power and rainwater harvesting systems will be introduced to improve energy efficiency and water management.

Established in 1946, Dhaka Medical College has played a vital role in the country's medical education and healthcare services. Currently, about 1,500 students are enrolled in MBBS and postgraduate programmes, while the 2,600-bed hospital treats around 4,000 patients daily. Officials say the proposed project will not only expand patient services but also ensure a safer and more modern environment for students and teachers.