Culex Concern as March Peak Looms in Dhaka
Although the population of dengue-carrying Aedes mosquitoes has slightly declined in Dhaka, experts have warned that Culex mosquitoes are likely to reach their peak in March, potentially causing severe public suffering. Entomologists and public health specialists fear that due to structural and scientific shortcomings, the rising prevalence of this mosquito species may pose serious challenges for city residents.
The warning came on Saturday, January 3, during a discussion titled “Mosquito Menace and Citizen Suffering”, organized by the Dhaka Utility Reporters’ Association (DURA) at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU).
Speaking at the event, Professor Dr. Kabirul Bashar, an entomologist and public health expert from the Department of Zoology at Jahangirnagar University, said the rise of Culex mosquitoes alongside the possible return of Aedes clearly indicates that Dhaka’s mosquito problem is no longer seasonal, but rather a structural and scientific crisis.
“I say this with conviction—the suffering is inevitable if immediate action is not taken,” he warned. “Ignoring science-based data will cost lives and health. At the same time, an uncomfortable truth must be acknowledged: without citizen participation, it is impossible to make Dhaka mosquito-free.”
Dr. Bashar added that stagnant water on rooftops, unused containers, and uncovered water tanks—often dismissed as minor negligence—are major contributors to mosquito breeding. While Aedes numbers have declined for now, Culex mosquitoes are increasing and are expected to peak in March, he cautioned.
Urban planner Dr. Md. Ariful Islam echoed the concerns, stating that temporary solutions will not bring lasting relief. “Unplanned urbanization, poor housing, inadequate drainage, and ineffective waste management lie at the root of the mosquito crisis,” he said, stressing that public awareness is indispensable for any initiative to succeed.
Aligning with the experts, Dr. Nishat Parveen, Chief Health Officer of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), said mosquito control cannot be achieved by city corporations alone. “Every citizen must keep their surroundings clean. We are working at the field level, but success is impossible without public cooperation,” she said.
From Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), Assistant Health Officer Md. Sadman Sakib noted that ward-wise spraying and awareness campaigns are ongoing. “Considering the potential rise of Culex mosquitoes, we have already undertaken a month-long special operation,” he added.
Sharing a personal account, DRU General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel said he still suffers long-term effects after contracting chikungunya several years ago. “I cannot walk even two minutes without stopping,” he said, urging authorities to treat mosquito control with utmost seriousness to prevent further public hardship.
Following the discussion, DURA welcomed seven new members and announced membership for three journalists from television and print media sectors.
DBTech/DPIO/EH/OR
