RAWALPINDI: With summer fast approaching, we may face difficulty in combating dengue fever, which is why the public and private sector should take advantage of the current weather and make joint efforts to ensure vector surveillance in hot spots and suspected mosquito breeding areas.

This was said by Provincial Minister for Labour and Human Resource Raja Ashfaq Sarwar during a meeting on anti-dengue measures at the Commissioner Office on Saturday.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Malik Ibrar, Asfandyar Bhandara, Aasia Ayub Tanoli as well as government department officials. Department representatives gave presentations on their performance regarding the prevention and control of dengue virus.The minister said negligence towards anti-dengue work would not be tolerated and that all relevant government departments and organisations must complete their assignments according to a fixed schedule.

He added that vigilant surveillance of graveyards, junkyards, tyre shops, restaurants and water reservoirs was required to prevent dengue.

Rawalpindi Solid Waste Management Company authorities have been directed to improve the sanitary conditions in the region.

In addition, administration officers have been asked to check the cost of essential items and ensure the sale of these items at a fixed price.