Road, Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader has been diagnosed with coronary artery blockages after he fell sick and was taken to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) on Sunday (Mar 3) morning.

Quader, who is also the ruling party secretary general, is now under close observation in the ICU, said BSMMU director Abdullah Al Harun.

Awami League spokesperson Dr Rokeya Sultana said that they have decided to fly Quader to Singapore for his treatment.

According to her, an air ambulance has been arranged to shift Quader to a Singapore hospital.

BSMMU Cardiology department Chairman Syed Ali Ahsan said, "Three artery blockages have been detected following an angiogram test. One block has been opened."

“His health condition is now better than morning,” the doctor said.

He, however, added that the situation is still critical and he will be under observation for 72 hours.

Information Minister Hasan Mahmud said, "On behalf of our party we are arranging to shift him to Singapore for better treatment."

As soon as the news broke, dozens Awami League supporters and leaders including Awami League Joint Secretary General Mahmudul Alam Hanif, Water Resource Deputy Minister Enamul Haque Shamim rushed to visit Quader.

The party leaders have urged party leaders and supporters to not crowd the hospital.

According to Awami League sources, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is closely overseeing the treatment arrangements.

After Fazr prayer on Sunday, Quader's health deteriorated and he was rushed to BSMMU.