Hindustan Times 03.09.2010
Dengue: MCD jittery
Pyrethorid has insect repellent properties and is generally harmless to human beings. The paint will safeguard people against mosquito and insect bites for a period of 12 weeks.
Many countries such as Turkey, Sri Lanka, South Africa, and Mexico have been using this chemical to combat malaria and dengue. A team of 100 MCD staffers are currently undergoing training at the National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCDC).
With 67 new cases reported on Thursday, the total number of cases has reached 1081, with three deaths reported so far. Work started on Thursday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where the opening and closing ceremonies of Games will be held. On a trial basis, walls of structures at the Games Village, near Akshardham Temple, which will be used as the residential and training venue by delegates and athletes during the sports extravaganza, were sprayed with the chemical and showed good results.
“We want to reassure people that we are taking every possible measure to combat dengue. Work has already started and we will cover all the venues within two weeks,” said V K Monga, chairman of Public Health Committee of the MCD. The chemical is being procured from a Mumbai based private company.
But with Games just round the corner the civic agency is claiming that the company is charging more than double the usual amount. “The cost of the chemical is Rs 500 per litre but the company is charging us up to Rs 1,300. We have no option but to go for it,” he added.
