District Administration Observes World Malaria Day at MCC
Mangaluru: The District administration, Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat, Mangaluru City Corporation and Health and Family Welfare Department jointly observed World Malaria day at the Mangala Hall, MCC premises here on April 25.
The programme began with an invocation. Environment Engineer Madhu welcomed the gathering.
The programme was inaugurated by MLA J R Lobo along with Mayor Kavitha Sanil by lighting the traditional lamp.
Addressing the gathering MLA Lobo said, “From many years we are trying to eliminate Malaria but have not been fully successful in our mission. If we want to be successful we need public support, if the people of the city join hands with the Mangaluru City Corporation, we can surely eliminate Malaria from Mangaluru. People of Mangaluru have the concern to keep the city clean. Mosquitoes can breed even in clean water. If we want to eliminate mosquito breeding we should close all the open drains. MCC should play a vital role by bringing awareness among the people about Malaria. Sometimes the septic tanks are also directly connected to the open drainage which is a serious issue. We have to put an end to such practices.”
Lobo also said, “Many people demand fogging for mosquitoes but instead of fogging it is better to plant neem trees. Because neem trees repel mosquitoes and the smoke of the neem leaves is more effective than fogging. The Neem trees also absorb bad odor. MCC should utilise government funds effectively to make Mangaluru a healthy city”.
Mayor Kavitha Sanil speaking on the occasion said, “The government has taken all the measures to control Malaria. At the MCC level, all the necessary measures have been taken. 96 staff have been appointed in all the 60 wards to survey cases of Malaria. At the MCC level, medical check up of building construction workers has been done. A good morning and Shobhodaya team have been formed to check cases of Malaria among the labourers. Compared to last year, Malaria cases have decreased by 50%. Last year 2605 cases were reported but this year there were only 1250 cases of malaria”.
The Mayor has ordered through the media to clean Overhead Tanks used in Hotels, commercial buildings, and residential apartments within 15 days.
Commissioner Mangaluru City Corporation Mohammed Nazir delivered the vote of thanks.
Deputy Mayor Rajaneesh and President of Health Committee also present.