CHATTOGRAM: In a major leap forward for the region’s healthcare sector, Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain inaugurated the city’s first-ever affordable “Step-Down ICU Unit” at Apollo Imperial Hospitals today (05 April, 2026). This pioneering initiative is designed to provide high-quality intensive care at a fraction of the usual cost, making life-saving services accessible to the general public.
A Step-Down ICU is a specialized unit for patients who have moved past the critical phase of a life-threatening illness but still require close monitoring and partial ICU support. While less complex than a full-scale ICU, it offers significantly more advanced care than a general ward, including continuous monitoring, oxygen support, and intensive medical supervision. Apollo Imperial Hospitals has set a revolutionary price point for this service, offering ICU bed facilities for just 4,500 BDT, the lowest rate currently available in Chattogram.
During the inauguration, Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain highlighted the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing that increasing ICU capacity is essential for future pandemic preparedness. He called for a coordinated effort between the public and private sectors to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure.
Chattogram Civil Surgeon Dr. Jahangir Alam lauded the move, noting it as a vital addition to the city’s medical services.
Hospital Chairman Wahed Malek reiterated their commitment, stating that saving lives through timely treatment is their priority over profit.
The ceremony was also attended by Managing Director Nafid Nabi, CEO Helal Uddin, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Md. Fazle Akbar Chowdhury, and other senior medical professionals.
