Kolkata, 01 November (H.S.):

Dengue cases in Kolkata have crossed the 1,000 mark this year, according to updated figures released by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). As of October 26, the city has recorded 1,017 dengue cases — an increase of 226 cases compared to the corresponding period last year.

KMC officials informed that 932 cases had been reported till October 19. Between October 12 and 19, 93 fresh cases were detected, indicating a slight dip in weekly infections.

A four-year-old girl has reportedly succumbed to dengue in an area under Bottala Police Station. While the civic body termed the death “unfortunate,” opposition parties have criticized KMC’s dengue prevention measures. However, health officials maintained that the concerned ward has not reported any other case in the past 10 months.

Speaking on Saturday, Mayor Firhad Hakim said intermittent rainfall continues to trigger mosquito breeding in stagnant water on rooftops and surrounding premises. He urged residents to remain vigilant. “Many citizens have become aware, but everyone must stay alert. Only then can we eliminate dengue. Please keep a close watch on your rooftops and surroundings,” Hakim appealed.

The Mayor also stated that the civic health department is intensifying surveillance and public awareness drives across vulnerable zones to curb the spread of the disease.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh