Kolkata, 29 August (H.S.): The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Metro Railway have launched a joint “Special Drive” to combat dengue across the city. The campaign began at Esplanade Metro Station and will continue until September 3.

The drive is being conducted under the joint leadership of KMC Administrator Smita Pandey and Metro’s PCMO Dr Reena Mukherjee. Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Pal was present at the launch of the campaign.

Appealing to citizens to cooperate with the authorities, Pal said, “Dengue cannot be eliminated unless people become aware and responsible.” She stressed the need to prevent water from accumulating in homes, flower pots and other places, while also urging residents to clean water tanks regularly.

The special drive will cover all Metro stations and adjoining areas across Kolkata, as well as various South Eastern Railway stations, train car sheds and railway residential areas.

As part of the campaign, notices will be issued to owners of abandoned plots and premises where bushes have grown and stagnant water has accumulated or is likely to accumulate. The notices will be issued under Section 496 of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Act.

Authorities have also announced fines ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 400 for dumping prohibited plastic or garbage in public places. A stricter approach has been proposed against those found spitting or littering in public areas. Apart from imposing fines, offenders may be made to clean the spot themselves, with the process being recorded and uploaded on social media as a deterrent.

The authorities clarified that the initiative will not be restricted to the monsoon season or run only for a few days. The campaign will continue in the future and will be expanded across the state in coordination with other government departments, including the Irrigation Department and Public Works Department (PWD).

Pal said the fight against dengue should become a people’s movement rather than being left to the government alone. She urged citizens to ensure that no stagnant water is allowed to accumulate around their homes and appealed for regular cleaning of water tanks. The current phase of the special drive will continue until September 3.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey