The Business Bytes
Barbil, November 30, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In a significant initiative to combat the spread of dengue and malaria, the JSW Foundation has begun distributing mosquito nets to slums located within the direct impact zones (DIZ) of its mining operations in Keonjhar district. The campaign is a proactive step to reduce the transmission of vector-borne diseases in the region.
The distribution drive kicked off in Barbil’s Ward No. 15 in the presence of Ward Member Shibananda Champei, and later expanded to other affected areas within the DIZ. As part of the initiative, residents of Ward No. 15 received mosquito nets, a vital measure in preventing the spread of diseases such as dengue and malaria. The Foundation had earlier conducted fogging in and around the slum area to further curb the breeding of mosquitoes.
This initiative was undertaken in response to a request from the Barbil Municipality, highlighting the collaborative effort between the foundation and local authorities to address public health concerns.
In addition to the distribution in Ward No. 15, mosquito nets were also handed out in Loidapada Panchayat, located in the Nuagaon DIZ, with the support of the Sarpanch of Loidapada. Furthermore, the Foundation partnered with SEVA Group to extend the reach of the campaign, distributing nets to underprivileged beneficiaries at the SEVA office.
Altogether, the JSW Foundation aims to distribute 2,000 mosquito nets across all DIZs in the coming days, ensuring that the most vulnerable communities are adequately protected.
This effort comes at a crucial time, as the National Centre for Vector-Borne Diseases Control reported a significant rise in malaria cases in Odisha. In 2023, the state recorded 41,971 malaria cases, nearly double the 23,770 cases reported in 2022. Despite a lower number of fatalities, the surge in cases has heightened the need for preventive measures, such as the distribution of mosquito nets, to protect communities from the threat of vector-borne diseases.
By focusing on preventive health measures and collaborating with local organizations, the JSW Foundation is playing a key role in safeguarding public health in the region.
