The Hindu 06.02.2010
Intensive mosquito control drive from Monday
Staff Reporter
| 3 government departments to launch the week-long drive |
Minister convenes meeting to discuss measures to check breeding
Underground drains in town limits, “L” and “U” drains to be cleaned
PUDUCHERRY: Three government departments will jointly launch a week-long drive from Monday to take intensive measures for mosquito control across Puducherry.
Public Health Minister A. Namassivayam on Friday convened a meeting with officials to discuss the measures to be taken for controlling mosquito breeding. Chief Secretary, Development Commissioner, Secretary of Public Works Department (PWD), officials of the PWD, Health and Local Administration Departments and municipal commissioners participated.
The Minister said that residents of Puducherry were facing hardship owing to increasing mosquito menace. The government was taking mosquito control measures on a war-footing, he said, according to a release from the Office of the Public Health Minister.
In a step towards this, the Local Administration Department, Public Works Department and Health Department would kick-start the anti-mosquito drive.
Underground drains within the town limits and “L” and “U” drains would be cleaned.
The Health Department would undertake fogging activities in all areas, while municipalities and commune panchayats would remove garbage and stagnant water, Mr. Namassivayam said.
Open septic tanks, water collecting in waste plastics, coconut shells and tyres served as breeding ground. He called for coordinated effort from the three departments for effective mosquito control.
Fogging measures should be carried out in all areas at the same time , he said.
Prior to the campaign, Mr. Namassivayam said a report on the status of septic tanks in all government buildings should be prepared.
A report on mosquito menace should be prepared and submitted to the Chief Secretary after completion of the campaign, he added.
Mr. Namassivayam said that part-time and daily rated workers of government departments should be roped in for the campaign and given incentive.
Students and non-government organisations should also be involved.
Funds required to carry out the works could be obtained immediately, he added.
