CHATTOGRAM, Dec 1, 2025 (BSS) – Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) has formally begun using USA technology-based Bacillus Thuringiensis Israelensis (BTI) – a naturally occurring soil bacterium used as a biological insecticide to eliminate mosquito larvae in stagnant water – as part of its anti-mosquito drive.

For the first time, CCC has initiated the spraying of this type of chemical instead of the previously used Temypos Fifty, as the USA-based approach has proven effective in eradicating mosquito larvae.

Amid the alarming rise in dengue, chikungunya, and malaria cases, CCC workers today officially started spraying BTI powder through fogger machines in Ward 39 of South Halishahar in the city.

CCC officials said Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain has taken the initiative to use this type of anti-insecticide powder to effectively combat the mosquito menace and the rising spread of infectious and deadly diseases.

Acting Chief Executive Officer and Secretary of CCC Md. Ashraful Amin formally inaugurated the BTI powder spraying drive this morning.

CCC’s Chief Conservancy Officer Captain Ikhtiyar Uddin Ahmed, Malaria and Mosquito Control Officer Md. Sharful Islam Mahi, and Quarantine Officer Rashed Chowdhury, among others, were present at the event.

CEO Ashraful Amin said that CCC has provided necessary training to the workers to conduct the drive and that special drives will be carried out in 25 identified danger zones across the city.

Chief Conservancy Officer Captain Ikhtiyar Uddin Ahmed said BTI powder is 98 to 99 percent effective in eliminating mosquito larvae, but the same chemical cannot be used for an extended period as mosquitoes may develop resistance over time.

CCC sources said Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain had earlier experimentally inaugurated the BTI spraying programme in Ward 17, Bakalia, on March 26 last.