MARGAO: At a district committee meeting chaired by South Goa District Collector Asvin Chandru, IAS, officials from health centers across the South district gathered to discuss strategies for controlling vector-borne diseases. Roland Martins, convenor of NGO Goa Civic and Consumer Action Network (GOACAN) highlighted a crucial decision to involve all elected representatives in the drive against vector-borne diseases.
Martins stated that the increasing number of suspected dengue cases prompted the decision to raise awareness among the public about suspected dengue cases and the necessary tests. Additionally, the committee decided to analyze the generation of health cards, noting discrepancies such as 2,300 health cards generated in Cortalim, where construction sites numbered only 35. “It was brought to our notice that one construction site alone had nearly 1,000 workers. Such issues need attention from elected representatives to ensure proper data,” Martins explained. The Collector agreed to conduct a special meeting with the block development officer to address these concerns, especially in industrial estates.
The committee aims to enhance efficiency at the block level by encouraging greater participation from the labor department.
“The Labour Department needs to get engaged in the mission. Major breakthrough is expected if the current momentum to control the vector borne disease continues,” Martins added.
