In view of rising cases of dengue fever in Karnataka, all Gram Panchayats have been instructed by the Minister of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj (RDPR) Priyank Kharge to take some precautions such as cleaning water storage tanks, open reservoirs, public toilets and ensuring that rain water flows quickly and safely.
Dengue has so far infected about 7,000 people with Bangalore alone reporting 500-700 cases daily. The disease has so far claimed seven lives.
In addition to weekly sanitation standards that require regular cleaning of water storage tanks, open reservoirs as well as public toilets, GPs have been asked to ensure that rainwater drains swiftly and safely so it does not turn into mosquito breeding ground.
For prevention of long-term water accumulation leading to environmental pollution due to improper waste management practices, cleanliness and hygiene must be observed in homes, shops, hotels, commercial complexes, public spaces/roads etc. and on vacant land by panchayats.
Mr. Kharge pointed out the necessity for maintaining operational control valves in water supply systems for stagnant water prevention and mosquito breeding control
Control valves should be put in place at existing wells and within the water supply system to prevent breeding grounds for mosquitoes while still ensuring proper flow of water.
He also underscored the role of health education programs that can be organised by gram panchayats through community health volunteers involving women’s SHGs and local educational institutions towards dengue awareness.
Village Health Sanitation & Nutrition Committees are being encouraged among gram panchayats for improving dengue control efforts.
The RDPR secretary’s directives regarding effective measures for dengue prevention and control should be followed by GPs.
