No expert opinion has been sought in mosquito extermination efforts over the past 53 years, A. F. Hassan Ariff, adviser to the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, said on Sunday.
Speaking to journalists during an inspection of the mosquito eradication programme in the Bangshal Nazirabazar area of Dhaka South City Corporation, Arif emphasized the need for expert input in managing the growing dengue crisis, reports UNB.
"This is the first time in Bangladesh's history that expert committees have been formed to oversee mosquito control activities," Arif stated, highlighting the establishment of two committees that include specialists in the field.
He underscored the challenges faced without expert guidance, particularly in determining the appropriate number of insecticides or larvicides needed for effective mosquito control and in measuring the impact of these treatments.
The adviser called for both short- and long-term strategies to combat dengue, advocating for the prioritization of expert insights in both approaches. "Intensified anti-mosquito measures are critical, and accurate data collection will enhance our efforts," he added.
Later, he visited the Dhaka South City Corporation’s control room, where live monitoring of fogging and larvicide spraying operations was conducted.
He was accompanied by Md Mizanur Rahman, CEO of Dhaka South City Corporation, and senior officials from the local government department.
Bd-pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
