By Habib Muhammad Khattak
LOWER DIR: Additional Deputy Commissioner General Bashir Khan chaired an anti-dengue meeting in Lower Dir. The session followed the directives of Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Arif Khan under the provincial government’s public agenda.
Officers and representatives from all key departments participated, including District Health Officer Dr. Niaz Ali Afridi, Assistant Director Local Government Abrar Ahmed, Medical Superintendent’s representative, and Entomologist Abdul Waris Khan.
During the meeting, Dr. Afridi briefed participants on the preventive steps taken so far. Moreover, he highlighted ongoing challenges and stressed the need for coordinated efforts.
In his instructions, ADC Bashir Khan urged all departments to adopt a joint strategy against dengue. He emphasized the launch of awareness drives on social media and at the level of union councils. In addition, he directed that special sessions be held for students in schools, colleges, and seminaries.
Furthermore, he underlined the importance of cleanliness in offices, schools, and government residences. The public, he added, must also keep homes clean and avoid stagnant water in coolers, refrigerators, pots, and rooftops.
To strengthen medical response, Bashir Khan ordered hospital administrations to prepare dedicated dengue wards. He also instructed them to complete laboratory test arrangements, ensuring timely treatment in emergencies.
The meeting concluded with an awareness walk. At this event, teams distributed pamphlets among students, shopkeepers, and the wider public to promote dengue prevention.
