He also assured all-out cooperation from the DCC in controlling aedes mosquito, which transmits dengue virus, and strengthen the waste management activities in the city.

"Coordinated community effort is required to raise awareness about dengue. In the last few years, the citizens' body played a significant role in anti-aedes campaign," Khoka said at a preparatory meeting of the National Committee to control aedes mosquito and strengthen the waste management activities.

This year, the DCC would take initiatives to maximise the participation of citizens in controlling aedes through awareness campaign involving the role models from different streams.

The breeding period of aedes mosquito is from May to July. With a view to preventing dengue fever, the DCC has already kicked off its activities. It has asked all the city hospitals to report any dengue case to the DCC Dengue cell. Besides, 5948 bighas of water bodies have been made free of water hyacinth.

The mayor stressed the need to raise awareness about dengue to persuade city residents to keep areas of their houses clean.

Dr Nazrul Islam, an urban planning expert, called for involving non-government organisations in the anti-aedes campaign.

National Professor Dr MR Khan, who has been working with the DCC in anti-aedes drive, insisted on ensuring supply of safe water and proper disposal of sewage to avoid health hazards.

Chief Executive Officer of DCC Saifuddin Ahmed, Chief Health Officer Col Shawkat Ali and Chief Conservancy Officer Maksudur Rahman also spoke.

The next meeting of the National Committee will be held on the first week of August.