Rajshahi holds dengue prevention and cleanliness drive

The National Dengue Prevention and Cleanliness Campaign-2026 was observed in Rajshahi today with a call for greater public awareness and regular cleanliness to prevent dengue.

The district administration organized the cleanliness drive at Nazrul Village premises in the city under the slogan, "Be aware to prevent dengue, stay healthy."

Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner Kazi Shahidul Islam attended the programme as the chief guest, while officials and employees of different branches of the district administration took part in the drive.

Speaking on the occasion, the deputy commissioner said dengue prevention was not the responsibility of the administration alone but a collective responsibility of all.

He said the Aedes mosquito, which transmits dengue, usually breeds in clean, stagnant water. So, everyone should remain vigilant to prevent water from accumulating in and around homes, offices, educational institutions, business establishments and other places.

"The most effective ways to prevent dengue are awareness and regular cleanliness," he said.

He urged people to regularly clean places where water may accumulate, including rooftops, balconies, flower pots, discarded containers, coconut shells, plastic bottles and old tyres.

The deputy commissioner said cleanliness should be made a part of daily life rather than being limited to campaign periods.

He also called for coordinated efforts by the administration, general people, public representatives, educational institutions, and social and voluntary organizations to prevent dengue.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Sabur Ali, Senior Assistant Commissioner Abhijit Sarkar, Assistant Commissioners and Executive Magistrates Farhana Hossain, Borhan Uddin Antar, Yasin Mia and Pritam Chakraborty, and officials and employees of the district administration were present.

Later, a cleanliness drive was conducted at the Nazrul Village premises under the leadership of the deputy commissioner. Potential dengue breeding grounds were identified and cleaned during the drive, while public awareness was also raised about dengue prevention.