The Sitakunda and Mirsarai sections of the Dhaka–Chattogram Highway have turned into deadly accident zones, with frequent collisions involving buses, trucks, container vans, and motorcycles. Despite being a vital economic corridor, the area lacks a modern trauma center, forcing severely injured victims to travel long distances to Chattogram Medical College Hospital. Many die before receiving treatment due to delays caused by traffic congestion and inadequate emergency facilities.

The Sitakunda Upazila Health Complex, built in 1962, suffers from structural weaknesses, staff shortages, and insufficient capacity. Although designated as a 50-bed hospital, it faces patient loads several times higher. Out of 33 doctor positions, several remain vacant, including the crucial surgery consultant post. The hospital also lacks a generator, disrupting operations during power outages. Between May last year and April this year, 1,173 road accident victims received treatment there.

Experts emphasize that timely trauma care within the “golden hour” could significantly reduce fatalities, but without a local trauma center, the death toll continues to rise along this critical highway.