Eid Day Surge at Orthopaedic Hospital from Motorcycle Accidents

The National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) in Dhaka witnessed an unprecedented surge of patients on Sunday, as Eid festivities were overshadowed by a spike in road traffic accidents. By 4:30 pm, the hospital’s emergency department was crowded with victims of various accidents, ranging from minor injuries to serious fractures. Children, adults, and the elderly alike sought urgent medical care, creating a scene more intense than on typical days.

Hospital sources reported that the majority of patients had been involved in road traffic incidents, with motorcycle collisions accounting for the largest share. Injuries varied from broken arms and legs to less severe contusions and bruises, all requiring prompt attention.

A senior nurse at the emergency unit noted, “The number of patients today is far higher than on a normal day.” By 5:30 pm, at least 151 patients had received treatment in the emergency department, according to hospital records.

Among the admitted was Zubair, an 18-year-old HSC examinee from Narsingdi, who sustained a fractured right leg in a motorcycle accident while out for leisure. His relatives reported that he was riding when the collision occurred.

Similarly, 25-year-old Rakib was brought in with a fractured left arm after his motorcycle collided with a CNG-run auto-rickshaw in the city’s ECB area. Rakib claimed that the CNG driver was at fault, but he himself bore the brunt of the injuries.

The hospital’s 10-bed emergency ward was operating beyond capacity, with several patients receiving treatment on trolleys due to the high volume. Three doctors, seven to eight nurses, and support staff worked continuously to provide care. Some patients awaited emergency operations as the staff managed the inflow of cases.

Professor Dr Abul Kenan, director of NITOR, commented on the annual trend, saying, “During Eid holidays, road accidents increase sharply, leading to a significant rise in patient numbers. Last year, three-wheeler accidents were predominant, but this year, motorcycle riders form the majority of cases.” He added that each shift had 18 doctors on duty, with additional staff on standby to handle emergencies.

Emergency Department Statistics (Eid Sunday)

The high influx of patients highlights the continuing dangers faced by motorcyclists on busy roads during holiday periods and underscores the importance of road safety awareness, particularly during festive travel.