Social bodies buttress govt campaigns to spread awareness

Social organisations of the region, including units of international bodies such as Rotary International and Lions Club, have proven to be the foundation for the implementation of campaigns being launched by the government from time to time.

Prevention of vector-borne and waterborne diseases, checking spread of epidemics such as Covid-19, segregation of garbage for better solid waste management, prevention of depletion of water table and implementation of ban on plastic were cited among causes supported by social organisations by associating with campaigns launched by the Local Bodies Department and the Punjab Health Department.

Joint ventures undertaken by social organisations and government departments to achieve these goals included organising workshops, seminars, door-to-door visits to spread awareness and free medical and diagnostic test camps.

Chief advisor, Rotary International, District PDG, Amjad Ali, said district governor Sandeep Chauhan had implemented a coordinated programme to sensitise masses to causes and consequences of ignoring guidelines on the ban on use of plastic, environmental pollution and prevention of vector-borne and waterborne diseases.

Amjad Ali said organisation of events was expedited following a call made by state Health Minister Balbir Singh to associate with the campaigns being launched by the government on a regular basis.

Surinder Pal Sofat, a social activist, said members of the Rotary Club Ahmedgarh, Rotary Club Dynamic Ahmedgarh and Lions Club had also started spreading awareness among people regarding proactive measures to be taken to check the spread of coronavirus.

During his recent visit to the region, the Health Minister had called upon office-bearers of social organisations to join hands to support campaigns launched against spread of diseases in the region.

Dr Balbir had stated that the Health Department was fully equipped to fight any medical emergency arising out of Covid. But at the same time, he had advised persons with comorbidities, elderly persons and pregnant women to use masks to prevent the infection.

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Ludhiana