Even before the official dengue season begins, 24 dengue cases have already emerged across Rawalpindi during the ongoing monsoon rains, raising serious concern among local authorities.
In response, the district administration has activated a new emergency dengue plan, dividing the city into five zones, seven sectors, and 32 cluster centres—each with assigned in-charges for swift field response.
Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema chaired a high-level anti-dengue meeting, expressing alarm at the early outbreak and issuing strict warnings to health officials. He ordered disciplinary action under the PEEDA Act against negligent personnel.
Five Deputy District Health Officers (DDHOs) and 17 anti-dengue workers from affected areas have been issued show-cause notices.
DC Cheema has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward negligence. Officials submitting fake reports, skipping duties, or taking unauthorized leave will face immediate suspension or dismissal.
High-risk areas from last year are under strict watch, with daily inspections ordered. Premises violating dengue SOPs—especially tire shops, scrapyards, and under-construction buildings—will be sealed without warning if larvae are found.
Only the DC office is authorized to de-seal any location. Third-party surveys will be conducted, and if larvae are detected, responsible staff will face strict action.
