Temporary helipad set up in Bashundhara Residential Area

A temporary helipad has been set up in the capital's Bashundhara Residential Area to facilitate emergency air transport for ailing BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia as preparations are underway to take her to London for advanced treatment.

An Army helicopter conducted a test landing and take-off at the site, performing several trial flights shortly after 1pm on Thursday.

BNP sources said Khaleda Zia, who is currently receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital in a critical condition, is likely to be taken to London by an air ambulance provided by Qatar early Friday. 

A team of 17 individuals will accompany the former prime minister to London.

The team includes Khaleda Zia's daughter-in-law Syeda Shameela Rahman, seven skilled doctors including Dr Richard John Beale, and two SSF personnel.

Earlier, the government declared the BNP chairperson a VVIP and deployed members of the Special Security Force and the President Guard Regiment in the hospital for her security.