DSCC warns against fake data, fabricated reports as pre-monsoon mosquito survey begins

The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has launched its self-managed “Pre-monsoon Aedes Larva Survey,” with a stern warning from its administrator against any negligence or data fabrication by field workers.

Inaugurating the initiative at the Buriganga Hall of Nagar Bhaban on Sunday morning, DSCC Administrator Md Abdus Salam cautioned data collectors that providing false information without visiting designated sites would be considered a "game with human lives".

"This is a matter of life and death. Submitting a made-up report without physically visiting an area is equivalent to playing with people's lives," Salam said.

"Negligence in this assigned duty will not be tolerated under any circumstances."

The 12-day survey aims to identify potential breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, which carry dengue and chikungunya, to prevent an outbreak before the rainy season begins.

According to a DSCC media statement, the survey covers 2,250 houses, with 30 houses selected randomly from each of the 75 wards.

The survey will be conducted by 36 field workers from DSCC and the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

Data is being collected using KoboToolbox to ensure accuracy and scientific precision, DSCC said.

The administrator emphasised that scientific data is crucial for effective mosquito control.

Once the survey is complete, results will be analysed using standard entomological indicators, including the Breteau Index (BI), House Index (HI), Container Index (CI), and Pupa Index (PI).

"Dengue is now a major threat to public life. If we can correctly identify the sources of the disease, we can nip the outbreak in the bud," Salam added.

Following the inauguration, the administrator visited the Central Veterinary Hospital at the Fulbaria intersection to inspect the field activities firsthand.