Pune: PMC Rolls Out Monsoon Action Plan To Combat Zika, Dengue, Chikungunya
With the onset of the monsoon, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced an extensive citywide action plan to curb mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya. Following last year's Zika outbreak, the civic body is taking precautionary measures to curb any kind of infections, especially during the transmission period from June to November.
An official circular from the health department outlines coordinated efforts involving departments such as health, pest control, drainage, roads, environment, and building to help curb the infection.
The PMC's plan of action includes the breeding of guppy fish, which feed on mosquito larvae. These fish would be released into the PMC fountains, water bodies, and parks. The civic body will be posting banners to create public awareness for the prevention of dengue. Banners will be placed at park entrances. Audio messages with health tips will also be played while collecting the garbage. Health inspectors will penalise societies where mosquito breeding is found and ensure that no stagnant water remains in slums. The rainwater management is also a crucial step in curbing mosquito-borne diseases. In order to manage the rainwater drains, rainwater lines and chambers across the city, they will be cleaned and cleared to prevent blockages. Park areas will be monitored to prevent water stagnation. Rain nets and garden drains will be cleaned. All under-construction sites must ensure that rainwater does not collect. PMC will issue directives for proper drainage. Unauthorised scrap dealers, nurseries, and potters operating on private land will also face legal action if they fail to follow the instructions given by the PMC. All water tanks at PMC-run buildings, including schools, toilets, recreation centres, and cultural hubs, must be covered and repaired. Water in municipal swimming pools and adjacent ponds will be maintained to prevent mosquito breeding. Sites where roads have been dug for emergency work must be monitored for water stagnation. Quick drainage actions will be taken if water collects. Mosquito prevention will be prioritised across all PMC assets, including bridges and road projects.
Dr Rajesh Dighe, assistant health officer, PMC, said, "All zonal officers and department heads have been ordered to implement these measures. We urge citizens to remain alert and contribute to keeping Pune disease-free this monsoon. Efforts will be taken to manage mosquito breeding in natural water sources like the Mula-Mutha riverbed, Manjari, Holkar Bridge, and Mhalunge pond. We urge citizens to follow the directives and observe weekly 'Dry Days' to empty water from coolers, plant pots, and open containers. Remove unused tires, cans, and trash from terraces. Prevent water accumulation around refrigerators and in gardens. Keeping our surroundings clean is important to stop any kind of disease outbreak."
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