Residents of Kashipur Union in Narail’s Lohagara upazila now have access to a free ambulance service, launched on Saturday (June 13) at Erenda Bazar.
The initiative was introduced by Md. Atiqul Islam, president of the Kashipur Union Unnayan Parishad and an upcoming candidate for union chairman. Initially operating with two ambulances, the program guarantees cost-free medical transport for union residents for the next five years.
Under the initiative, residents can call a dedicated hotline to transport patients to hospitals in Narail, Jashore, Khulna, Dhaka, or anywhere in the country. Special arrangements are also available to assist Kashipur residents who need medical transfers between other districts, Islam announced.
"I am running for chairman to help deliver government services directly to people's doorsteps," Islam said regarding his upcoming campaign. "However, even if I am not elected, I will continue these public service works."
The service saw its first use on launch day. Sohel Rana, a local volunteer, successfully secured an ambulance to transport a sick relative to Dhaka immediately after contacting the organizers.
This medical transport initiative follows a recent relief effort by the candidate. On May 26, ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, Islam used personal funds to distribute essential food packages—including rice, lentils, cooking oil, and vegetables—to 550 low-income families in the union.
