The government is working with the highest priority to prevent the spread of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases, said Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr. Abdul Moin Khan. He said efforts are underway to destroy mosquito breeding sources while research and technical capacity are also being strengthened to improve the effectiveness of mosquito-control chemicals.

The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at an emergency meeting of the National Taskforce Committee formed to prevent dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases at the Local Government Division’s conference room at the Secretariat on Sunday (August 30). State Minister for Local Government Mir Shahe Alam chaired the meeting.

Dr. Abdul Moin Khan said mosquito control remains particularly challenging in large and densely populated areas such as Dhaka North, Dhaka South and Gazipur city corporations. Despite limited resources, the city corporations are making all-out efforts. He stressed the need to identify mosquito breeding grounds and take measures to prevent water from accumulating there.

The minister further said research and assessments are being conducted on the effectiveness of mosquito-control chemicals with assistance from Japan and other developed countries. Relevant university experts have also been involved in the process. Alongside raising public awareness, he emphasized strengthening technical capabilities to contain dengue outbreaks.

At the meeting, State Minister Mir Shahe Alam said the number of dengue patients this year has fallen by nearly half compared with last year. City corporations are conducting cleanliness drives, spraying operations and awareness campaigns as part of mosquito-control efforts.

According to the state minister, around 90 people have died while undergoing treatment for dengue from January this year until Saturday. During the same period, approximately 2,200 to 2,500 patients recovered after receiving treatment and returned home.

The state minister urged people to regularly clean areas inside their homes, rooftops, balconies and surroundings where water can accumulate, including discarded tyres and plastic containers. He stressed that public awareness, alongside government initiatives, will play a crucial role in preventing dengue.

Secretaries of the Local Government Division and Health Division, the administrator of Dhaka South City Corporation, relevant officials of Dhaka North and South City Corporations, chief health officers of 13 city corporations and other concerned officials attended the meeting. Officials from 11 city corporations outside Dhaka joined the meeting virtually.