Mosquito attack an escalating threat

CUMILLA, Mar 29: Residential students at Cumilla Victoria Government College in Cumilla are grappling with a severe mosquito infestation that has intensified over recent weeks, raising concerns about dengue, chikungunya, and malaria.

A ground survey revealed that scattered garbage, leftover food, and clogged drains across the degree section are creating ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Areas around the Bangladesh Mural, Millennium Building, Science Building, Administration Block, Economics Building, and sports grounds are particularly affected, with plastic and food waste accumulating. The stagnant water in neglected drains further exacerbates the problem, according to students.

"Even with mosquito coils burning, the insects seem undeterred," said Rakib Hossain, a resident of Kazi Nazrul Islam Hall. "By evening, their numbers surge, making it difficult to concentrate on studies."

Mahmud Khanum, a fourth-year honors student, described the situation as increasingly uncomfortable. "The infestation is worsening, and the campus environment is becoming unhealthy. Consistent cleaning and preventive measures are urgently needed," he said.

Several students voiced frustration that sporadic mosquito-spraying conducted months ago by college authorities has failed to provide lasting relief.

Vijay Chandra, a first-year accounting student, remarked, "Even a few minutes outside your room, and you're swarmed. Nothing effective has been done since the last spray." Similarly, Mohammad Zahidul Islam of the Botany Department noted that parents visiting the campus are also affected, highlighting the broader public health risk.

Asma, a resident of Nawab Faizunnesa Hall, said, "It's difficult to study in the hall. Coils offer little relief from the growing mosquito problem."

Local medical experts underscore the potential dangers. Dr. Robiul Hasan Sani warned that increased mosquito activity can elevate the risk of vector-borne diseases. "Culex mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water, can transmit multiple infections. Drains and waterlogged areas must be cleared regularly," he said. Cumilla district's Civil Surgeon, Ali Nur Mohammad Basir Ahmed, assured that any dengue cases would be managed promptly but emphasised that mosquito control largely falls under the city authorities.

Cumilla City Corporation Executive Engineer Mohammad Main Uddin Chishti confirmed that the administration is monitoring the situation and will implement necessary measures.

Meanwhile, the college claims ongoing efforts to control the infestation. Principal Professor Abul Bashar Bhuiyan noted that urban development around the campus has led to low-lying areas where water accumulates, worsening mosquito breeding. He stated that hall staff has been instructed to maintain cleanliness and eliminate stagnant water.

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