The Dhaka South City Corporation’s decision to allocate Tk 50.5 crore for mosquito control is, on paper, a welcome move. That a pre-monsoon survey found Aedes mosquito larval density above the prescribed index in 63 of its 75 wards, with 27 wards identified as high-risk areas, shows that we must take mosquito control seriously.
Indeed, after years of rising dengue cases, public frustration, and repeated failures in vector management, a larger budget signals recognition of the scale of the problem.
However, Dhaka’s residents have seen this pattern before: Money allocated, announcements made, and yet the city remains overwhelmed by mosquitoes.
This is because a bigger budget means nothing if the implementation remains weak.
The core issue has never been the lack of funds but the lack of planning, coordination, and accountability. The city corporations frequently act reactively, not proactively, responding only after dengue cases surge.
With dengue deaths already occurring, this year’s allocation must break that cycle. Dhaka needs a scientifically guided, year‑round mosquito control strategy, not a seasonal scramble.
That means ensuring that every ward has a clear operational plan along with investing in trained personnel, modern equipment, and transparent reporting so residents can see where and how the budget is being used.
Public engagement is equally crucial. Without community participation -- clearing water containers, maintaining rooftops, reporting breeding sites -- even the best efforts from the city corporation will fall short. Yet, community participation only works when the city corporations lead with consistency and credibility.
We appreciate the increased budget, but as a city, we have no room left for symbolic gestures. With dengue now a near‑permanent threat, promises are not enough. We need to see results.
