The Prime Minister made these remarks today (16) while addressing a special dengue prevention programme held in Kottawa in line with Dengue Prevention Week. The initiative was aimed at controlling the spread of dengue and increasing public awareness on preventive measures.
Dr. Amarasuriya said dengue cases and risks are currently increasing across the country, with the Colombo District remaining among the high-risk areas. She noted that health authorities have identified Maharagama as one of the areas facing particular concern.
She further highlighted that schools, government and private sector institutions, and other public places have been identified as vulnerable locations for dengue transmission.
The Prime Minister said the government had declared Dengue Prevention Week and introduced special measures during this period, but emphasized that dengue control efforts should not be limited to a single week.
“A long-term programme should be formulated to address this issue. At this critical moment, all stakeholders must come together and act with commitment,” she said.
Dr. Amarasuriya added that the country had successfully overcome several challenges in the past and that dengue prevention should also be treated as a shared responsibility among all citizens.
She stressed the need to transform the Colombo District from a high-risk area into a lower-risk zone and work towards eliminating the dengue threat.
Following the programme, the Prime Minister inspected the Kottawa bus stand and surrounding areas to observe dengue prevention activities.
Chairman of the Maharagama Municipal Council Saman Samarakoon thanked the institutions involved in the initiative, including the municipal council, Kottawa Police, security forces personnel, Maharagama Divisional Secretariat, Public Health Inspector’s Office, National Housing Development Authority, Land Registry Office, National Transport Commission, local schools, and the Kottawa Traders’ Association.
