The ban will be effective for two months. PHOTO: FILE
ISLAMABAD: In a surprising move, the capital’s authorities have invoked Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code to contain the outbreak of dengue in the capital which has seen 64 people testing positive for the virus in recent weeks.
The Islamabad Capital Territory Administration (ICTA) on Friday imposed a ban on accumulating fresh water in all forms including in ponds, fountains, and on keeping tyres in open spaces.
An order issued by the additional district magistrate said the accumulation of fresh water offered the ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes which spread the dengue fever.
“The discharge of water from houses into streets and roads, accumulation of fresh water in the form of ponds without covers, running of fountains, standing water in plant pots, lawns and gardens inter alia amongst others carries the threat of exposing the population to mosquito-borne diseases,” the order read.
“Moreover, tyre shops with a display of tyres outside and in open spaces or the storage of uncovered tyres can also be a breeding spot for the virus,” it further warned.
The additional district magistrate prohibited accumulation of fresh water in any form, the unauthorised display and storage of tyres under Section 144 of the CrPC.
The ban will be effective for two months.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 23rd, 2017.
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