Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Aug 30: The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Metro Railway Kolkata on Saturday launched a special drive to eradicate dengue from the city, officials said.
The joint campaign began in the Esplanade Metro Station area and will continue till September 3.
KMC Administrator Smita Pandey and Metro Railway Kolkata Principal Chief Medical Officer (PCMO) Rina Mukherjee are jointly leading the drive. West Bengal Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul was also present at the launch.
Paul said public awareness and cooperation were essential to eradicate dengue.
“Dengue cannot be eradicated if the common man is not aware. There should not be encroachment of footpaths. Traders should keep at least two-thirds of the space free for movement,” she said.
The drive will cover all metro stations and adjoining areas in Kolkata, along with various stations and train car shed areas of the South Eastern Railway.
In railway accommodation areas, notices are being issued or will be issued to owners of abandoned lands or premises where water has accumulated or is likely to accumulate due to bushes.
The notices will be issued under Section 496 of the Municipal Corporation Act, 1994.
A fine of Rs 200 to Rs 400 will also be imposed for throwing banned plastic or dirt in public places.
Those found spitting or throwing dirt will not only be fined but will also be directed to clean the spot. They will be asked to record the cleaning on camera and upload the footage on social media, officials said.
Officials said the campaign is not intended to remain limited to the monsoon season or a few days and will continue in the future.
The campaign will also be conducted across West Bengal in coordination with other government departments, including the Irrigation Department and Public Works Department.
Paul said the fight against dengue must become a mass movement rather than remain the responsibility of the government alone.
“This is not just a fight by the government alone, it has to be turned into a mass movement. Dengue cannot be eradicated if the common people are not aware. Water should not be allowed to accumulate in houses or in tanks. Water tanks should be cleaned regularly,” she said.
The present campaign will continue till September 3, the minister added.