Dhaka, Aug 7 (UNB)— The government has allocated Tk 51.5 crore to help the city corporations and municipalities fight mosquitoes.
LGRD Minister Md Tazul Islam came up with the information at a views exchanging meeting with Bangladesh Climate Change Journalist Forum (BCJF) at the Secretariat.
Of the amount, the two Dhaka city corporations were given Tk 7.5 crore each. Tk 1 crore each was allocated for Gazipur, Narayanganj, and Chattogram city corporations.
The other city corporations received Tk 50 lakh each while Tk 30 crore was allocated for all the municipalities.
Minister Islam said they are conducting mosquito extermination activities using the experience of Kolkata. “It’ll be under control if everyone keeps premises of their residences and offices clean.”
Government data showed 29,912 dengue patients were admitted to hospitals since January 1. Twenty-three of them died.
Islam said Kolkata successfully managed to tackle dengue problem by making the people aware.
“We’re also working to raise awareness. We’ve learned a new lesson from Kolkata and have to work round the year,” he said.
Replying to a question, the minister said they are testing the effectiveness of the insecticide. A committee has been formed to monitor the process.
In Bangladesh, dengue usually prevails between March and October.
“We were coordinating with the two Dhaka city corporations and directed them to take effective steps,” he said, noting that the number of aedes mosquitoes is double this year compared to the previous year.
“It’s a new lesson for us. We’re constantly monitoring the situation,” he said.
BCJF General Secretary Motahar Hossain, among others, spoke at the meeting chaired by BCJF President Kausar Rahman.
