Continuous cleanliness drives in schools to prevent Dengue:Order from the Department of Education

The Tamil Nadu School Education Department has instructed government and government-aided schools across the state to carry out special cleanliness activities every Wednesday.

The instruction comes amid the spread of dengue fever across Tamil Nadu. According to the circular issued by the School Education Department, schools should observe every Wednesday as a “Grand Cleanliness Wednesday” and conduct special cleaning activities across the campus.

Schools have been advised to make the initiative a continuous cleanliness drive. Areas such as terraces, staircases, spaces behind staircases, toilets, areas along compound walls, kitchens and drinking water facilities should be inspected regularly.

School authorities should identify places where stagnant water could collect and take immediate steps to clear or prevent water accumulation. Unwanted waste should also be removed from the school premises on Wednesdays.

Areas with overgrown bushes and unnecessary vegetation should be cleaned and maintained properly. The department has also instructed schools not to involve students in cleaning activities that may pose a safety risk.