A discussion was held yesterday at the initiative of the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Health Department to create public awareness on the “Use of SIT or Sterile Insect Technology in Integrated Pest Management.”
DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz was present as the chief guest at the meeting. DNCC Chief Health Officer Brigadier General Imrul Kayes Chowdhury presided over the meeting.
In his speech as the chief guest, DNCC Administrator Mohammad Ejaz said that combining traditional measures with modern technology is very important to prevent dengue.
The administrator further said that considering the special characteristics of Dhaka City as one of the largest megacities in the world, various programs will be implemented with utmost importance on increasing public awareness, cleanliness activities, use of innovative technology, and citizen participation to prevent dengue.
Experts present at the meeting highlighted the effectiveness of Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) as a modern and scientific solution to control Aedes mosquitoes, in addition to conventional methods.
It was reported in the discussion that through this technology, it is possible to reduce the number of Aedes mosquitoes in a safe, sustainable, and long-term way without having any negative impact on the environment.
At the meeting, the expert team presented examples of successful use of SIT technology in Havana, Cuba, and Valencia, Spain.
Mosquito control experts and researchers, health experts, entomologists, officials from relevant departments, and representatives of the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission participated in the exchange of views.
Experts and officials participating in the meeting gave different opinions on the feasibility, effectiveness, and future work plans of the SIT system.
