A growing number of unlicensed private hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers are operating across Cumilla city and surrounding areas, according to a report published on June 29, 2026. Many of these facilities lack proper authorization, environmental clearance, and qualified medical staff, leading to widespread mismanagement and patient safety risks. Maternal healthcare is particularly affected, with reports of unsafe surgeries, unnecessary cesarean operations, and inadequate monitoring putting mothers and newborns in danger.

The Cumilla Civil Surgeon’s Office reported 483 registered medical facilities, though the actual number exceeds 700, with many operating without approval. Several institutions, including Satata Specialized Hospital and Cumilla Alif Hospital, have been fined for irregularities, while others resumed operations soon after closure. Officials cited manpower shortages as a barrier to regular inspections, though recent raids fined six institutions about 1 million taka.

Local journalists and environmental officials attributed the problem to weak monitoring, political interference, and the lure of profit in a growing healthcare market. Authorities acknowledged the challenge and pledged continued enforcement against unlicensed operations.