Minister-mayor under the grip of mosquitoes

Local Government Minister Tajul Islam and Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Mayor Atiqul Islam

Local Government Minister Tajul Islam and Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Mayor Atiqul Islam found themselves amidst a swarm of mosquitoes during a cleaning drive at a lake in a RAJUK project in Dhaka. The incident unfolded during a public event attended by various dignitaries and officials.

Participants and Setting

In addition to Minister Tajul Islam and Mayor Atiqul Islam, RAJUK Chairman Anisur Rahman Mia and senior officials of DNCC were present at the event. The program took place on the bank of a lake adjacent to bridge No. 2 of RAJUK’s third project in the Uttara area of the capital.

Mosquito Menace Unveiled

A live video posted on Minister Tajul Islam’s Facebook page captured the ordeal faced by all participants, including the guests, as they swatted away mosquitoes and scratched at bitten spots. The presence of mosquitoes became so prominent that a journalist, during the event, pointed out the struggle of the participants to ward off mosquito bites and queried the minister about the severity of the issue.

Acknowledgment and Response

Minister Tajul Islam, in his response, acknowledged the gravity of the mosquito menace and expressed concern over the threat posed by Aedes mosquitoes, known to transmit diseases like dengue. He commended the proactive approach of the health ministry in addressing the issue and assured collaboration between the city corporation and the public to combat mosquito breeding grounds. He emphasized the need for a realistic approach, acknowledging the vast areas conducive to mosquito breeding and stressing the importance of collaboration between the state and its citizens.

Mayor's Call to Action

DNCC Mayor Atiqul Islam, addressing the gathering, urged everyone to take responsibility for eliminating mosquito breeding sites, emphasizing the need for mass campaigns and social movements to address the issue effectively.

The incident underscores the pressing need for concerted efforts to tackle the mosquito menace in urban areas like Dhaka. The involvement of government officials and public figures in such initiatives highlights the severity of the issue and the collective responsibility required to address it effectively. Moving forward, collaborative efforts between government agencies, civic authorities, and citizens will be crucial in mitigating the threat posed by mosquitoes and preventing the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.