State PWD takes measures to rid under-construction sites of dengue threat

Kolkata: The state Public Works Department (PWD) has initiated taking measures to check breeding of mosquitoes at the under-construction sites.

Directions have been given to all the executive engineers of the state PWD posted at different locations to take necessary measures in this connection.

It came to the notice of the concerned officials that accumulated water at under-construction sites turn to breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Hence, the step has been taken to control vector-borne diseases.

It may be mentioned that Rajiva Sinha, Additional Chief Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare department, wrote to the Principal Secretary of the state PWD, Arnab Roy, on August 17 in connection with the matter related to "prevention of dengue vector at construction sites".

Subsequently, the state PWD directed its executive engineers, who are in-charges of under-construction sites, to take necessary measures on an immediate basis "without fail".

In the letter from the state Health department to the state PWD, it was mentioned that "you may be aware that rainy season between July to October is the active breeding time for vector-borne diseases including dengue. It is noticed that often under-construction sites are major breeding grounds of the dengue vector that is Aedes Aegypti." It was also suggested that the executive engineers might hold meetings with the agencies carrying out the work at different sites for sensitisation on reduction and control of dengue vector at respective construction sites.

The agencies have to keep the construction sites clean and at the same time, there should be daily monitoring to avoid accumulation of water. The Health department has also suggested: "if accumulation of water is unavoidable, larvicidal may be sprayed on weekly basis. If required, basis orientation on vector control may be given by health officials to engineers and agencies for implementing the vector control protocol."

The executive engineers have also started taking necessary steps soon after getting the direction and would also hold meetings with the agencies, wherever necessary, to avoid accumulation of water at the construction sites.

It may be mentioned that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held several meetings with the concerned officials to check vector-borne diseases. She had directed to take pro-active steps in checking the same. Besides the concerned departments, all other civic bodies are directed to take necessary measures for the same in their respective areas.