The National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is set to open another building with 500 beds, expanding its capacity, The Business Standard reported.

The expansion will double the facility’s capacity to 1,000 beds.

Construction of the 15-storey building adjacent to the existing 500-bed facility in Agargaon has concluded. Equipment installation is almost complete, with only interior work remaining.

The facility will have three basement levels intended for parking and services while house wards, diagnostic units, and operating theatres will occupy the other 12 floors.

National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital joint director professor Dr Badrul Alam said: "The new building is complete and awaiting inauguration. Once operational, we will be able to serve a larger number of patients. At present, many have to be turned away due to bed shortages.

"It will be inaugurated soon, though the date has not yet been finalised. The ministry will announce the opening date.”

The Cabinet has granted approval for 852 new staff positions, with recruitment currently in progress.

Hospital records indicate that stroke patients comprise the largest patient group, followed by brain and spinal injury cases from accidents. The facility treats neurological conditions, including epilepsy, hydrocephalus, dementia, Parkinson's, and Guillain-Barré syndrome across all age groups.

Originally established in September 2012 with a capacity of 300 beds, the hospital expanded to accommodate 500 beds as demand grew.

The Economic Committee approved a Tk5.06bn($41.5m) project for the additional 500-bed facility in 2018.

Following a delay of 21 months, Wahid Construction was awarded a new tender in 2021 and successfully completed the building.