KMC asks Durga puja organisers to clamp down on mosquito breeding sites

With West Bengal shrouded in the shadow of most dengue deaths this year, the city civic body has asked Durga puja organisers to take special measures to clamp down on mosquito breeding zones in construction sites and within materials at celebration premises.

The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has issued directives to puja organisers to ensure water doesn't accumulate inside bamboo poles, a top requirement for construction of marquees in the approximately 3,500 pujas across the city.

"The edge of open-ended bamboo poles must be covered. Waste lying behind the marquees must be monitored," KMC Mayor-in-Council member Atin Ghosh told the media here.

Till August 31, the state recorded the highest number of dengue deaths in the country this year with the figure standing at 22, as per National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme website.

As many as 5,129 dengue cases were reported in the state till August 31.

To check food-related illnesses during the festive season, Ghosh said KMC has issued circulars to citizens to avoid drinks laced with food colours and shun peeled and cut fruits which have been sitting out in the open.

--IANS

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