PM Tarique orders weekly nationwide cleanliness drive to combat dengue, chikungunya

The prime minister urges nationwide Saturday drives from Mar 14 to tackle mosquito-borne diseases

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has ordered a nationwide weekly cleanliness drive starting Mar 14 to prevent the spread of dengue and chikungunya.

In a video message on Wednesday, the prime minister directed local administrations and public representatives to take effective measures in implementing the programme.

"A cleanliness drive will be conducted across the country every week ahead of the monsoon season. Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya are becoming fatal, but protection is possible if everyone remains vigilant," he said.

Addressing lawmakers and local representatives, Tarique urged them to lead Saturday cleaning campaigns in their respective areas alongside the public.

"Regular cleaning can protect people from these deadly fevers," he added.

The prime minister noted that while dengue was once seasonal, it now poses a year-round threat.

He highlighted that Aedes mosquitoes, which carry these diseases, breed in stagnant water left for as little as three days.

He called on citizens to ensure that water does not accumulate in flower pots, drums, buckets, discarded tyres, or on rooftops.

He also advised keeping water tanks covered and cleaning homes and surroundings at least once a week.