Overview
Out of all the provinces, Punjab was hit by the worst dengue epidemic during the last two years. It not only posed serious threat to human lives but also presented Punjab government with a big challenge of governance in terms of tackling this epidemic. Apart from taking remedial measures for curtailing it, Punjab government laid special emphasis on preventive measures. A wide-scale campaign was launched by the government to effectively combat this menace all over the province.
Initiative
The Local Government and Community Development (LG & CD) Department assigned PMDFC with the responsibility of strengthening the role of TMAs in combating this epidemic by building their institutional capacity. PMDFC carried out need assessment of its partner organizations and proposed to equip the TMAs with necessary instruments and trainings to fight this epidemic. High-risk TMAs were identified and foggers along with spray machines were procured by PMDFC on priority basis. 520 shoulder foggers and 1600 spray pumps along with safety gears were provided to the partner TMAs. Moreover, in order to address the mobility problem in TMAs with relatively larger geographical areas, 31 vehicle mounted foggers were also provided to 31 district headquarter TMAs. As an integral component of these measures, the Company also organized various training sessions for the concerned TMA staff. These trainings comprised formal class room learning sessions as well as hands-on trainings.
Anti-Dengue Equipment
So far, two distribution ceremonies of anti-dengue equipment under the anti-dengue campaign have been organized by PMDFC. The Chief Minister of Punjab, Mian Shahbaz Sharif graced the distribution ceremony held on June 21, 2012 at the Minar-e-Pakistan as the chief guest. The Chief Minister lauded the efforts of PMDFC and LG & CD Department for the anti-dengue campaign. He stressed upon the TMA officials to avail this opportunity and display utmost professional commitment in fighting dengue.
Geographical Information System
The system was used by PMDFC in providing ready to use information regarding the anti-dengue campaign to the Government of Punjab. Potential sites for dengue were identified and displayed by the use of GIS for every Union Council of Lahore. This initiative is aimed at conducting planned sprays in risky areas and avoiding duplication of resources.
Current Standing
Further in this regard, GIS software has been installed in LG & CD Department offices. Maps layout have been designed and uploaded in the computers of LG & CD Department. Departmental staff has been trained to update data in GIS maps as per the survey progress. PMDFC team is offering the required technical assistance to LG & CD Department and is working in close collaboration with the line departments for making Lahore dengue-free.
