The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is stepping up its efforts to address a significant increase in dengue fever cases. The city is currently seeing an average of 150 new dengue cases each day, prompting urgent action from local authorities.
Recent reports indicate that Bengaluru has recorded 3,304 dengue cases from July 1 to July 22. In response, BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath has called for immediate and robust measures to control the outbreak. These measures include intensified fogging, increased hospital monitoring, and the repair of potholes that may contribute to mosquito breeding.
During a recent meeting at the Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Company (BSWMC), Nath underscored the seriousness of the situation. He instructed Zone Commissioners to conduct daily meetings with Health Department officials to ensure effective dengue control efforts. This involves boosting activities such as pesticide spraying and fogging to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
Additionally, senior officials are now required to visit hospitals to track case numbers and ensure compliance with regulated rates for dengue test kits. Any hospitals found charging above the approved rates will face strict actions.
To raise public awareness about dengue prevention, the BBMP has launched a ‘Dengue Warrior’ short video contest. Students are encouraged to create educational reels on dengue prevention, with cash prizes awarded to the top ten entries. This initiative aims to engage the community in proactive disease control.
In response to the outbreak, the Karnataka Health Department has also appointed nodal officers at all government hospitals in Bengaluru to strengthen disease management efforts and ensure adequate resources are in place.
Moreover, officials are being tasked with addressing infrastructure issues such as potholes, conducting surveys to identify out-of-school children, and ensuring timely property tax collection. These actions form part of a comprehensive strategy to improve public health and infrastructure in the city.
As Bengaluru faces this health challenge, the coordinated efforts of the BBMP and other authorities reflect a determined approach to mitigate the impact of dengue and protect public health.