SHC Demands Prompt Action on Dengue Fever in Sindh
The Sindh High Court (SHC) has ordered the Sindh government to create a comprehensive “Provincial Action Plan” to combat dengue fever. The directive, issued by a division bench comprising Justice Adnanul Karim Memon and Justice Riazat Ali Sahar, demands finalization of the plan within four weeks. SindhNews.com
Court Directs Action Plan
The court acted on a public-interest petition filed by advocate Peeral Majidano on November 25th, issuing its order on December 1st. The ruling targets key officials, including the chief secretary, health secretary, and the Hyderabad district health officer.
The SHC’s order outlines several key requirements. These include continuous larval surveillance, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, and scheduled fumigation and control measures in urban and peri-urban areas. Furthermore, the court has emphasized the need for public awareness campaigns via different media.
“The Action Plan shall be science based, time bound and adequately funded,” the court declared, adding that the Health Department must ensure hospital readiness.
Online Dashboard and Local Body Involvement
The court also mandated the establishment of a public online dashboard to track dengue cases, preventive measures, fumigation areas, and budget information. SindhNews.com reported. Deputy commissioners will oversee the immediate removal of stagnant water, drain cleaning, and inspections. According to the court order, the Sindh government must also provide hospitals with testing kits, dedicated dengue wards, and trained staff.
Health Response Committee
The order mandates the reactivation or formation of the district dengue response committee. Involving the health, municipal administration, and district administration, this committee is set to meet as frequently as every two weeks during high-risk seasons.
Conclusion
With the court’s intervention, the Sindh government faces a clear deadline to implement an effective dengue control plan. The action plan, complete with real-time public access to data, aims to strengthen healthcare services and ensure proactive local involvement.