After 148 dengue-related deaths in the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) this year, the city authority has stepped up its efforts to control the deadly mosquito-borne disease.
The DSCC has decided to form ward-based monitoring teams that will include local residents to ensure the proper and effective use of adulticides and larvicides chemicals used to kill adult mosquitoes and mosquito larvae, respectively.
These teams will oversee the scheduling and application of mosquito control measures, while also working alongside the waste management department and local citizens to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds in their areas.
The dengue situation in Bangladesh continues to worsen. According to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), five deaths and 1,034 new hospitalisations were reported in the past 24 hours.
So far this year, the country has recorded 76,026 cases and 307 deaths, with Dhaka South City Corporation accounting for the highest toll of 148.
October alone saw 80 fatalities, the highest monthly figure, while the first six days of November added 29 more deaths.
While the city uses fogging machines throughout the year to control mosquito populations, residents have complained that these machines do not reach all narrow lanes, and that city workers often act at their discretion rather than according to actual need. Doubts have also been raised about whether the chemicals are used in correct proportions.
In response, DSCC held a meeting at Nagar Bhaban on Thursday, where officials decided to launch a new mosquito control drive involving residents directly.
A press release from DSCC noted that although both dengue cases and deaths are lower than last year, recent outbreaks have prompted urgent action. The meeting resolved to identify hotspots based on infection rates and conduct operations in these areas.
The meeting was chaired by DSCC Administrator Md Mahmudul Hasan, with participation from the city’s health department, waste management department, and regional executive officers”
Speaking at the meeting, Mahmudul Hasan emphasised that controlling the Aedes mosquito is not only the responsibility of the city corporation but also of the citizens. He called for stronger public awareness alongside the efforts of DSCC workers.
He also announced that mobile court operations will be conducted in the field for sudden and targeted interventions.
DSCC Chief Executive Officer Md Zahirul Islam added that the authority has been raising awareness through newspaper notices, TV campaigns, social media, and messages in mosques and temples. He said area-specific cleanliness and mosquito control drives will soon begin with renewed energy.
The meeting also declared that individuals suspected of having dengue can receive free testing at three DSCC hospitals- Dhaka Metropolitan General Hospital, Dhaka Metropolitan Children’s Hospital, and Nazira Bazar Maternity Hospital.
Citizens were urged to report any dengue-related information within the DSCC area by calling 01709-900888.
