GAIBANDHA, Oct 15, 2023 (BSS) - Global Handwashing Day-2023 was observed in

the district today with a call to prevent communicable diseases and save
lives.
 
This year's theme of the day is "Clean hands are within reach".
 
Marking the day, district administration and Department of Public Health
Engineering (DPHE) jointly chalked out elaborate programmes.

In the morning, around 10 am, a post rally discussion was held at the
conference room of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) here with executive engineer
of DPHE Shayhan Ali in the chair.
 
Additional DC-General Abdul Awal addressed the meeting as the chief guest on
behalf of Deputy Commissioner Kazi Nahid Rasul.

The meeting was also addressed, among others, by nezarat Deputy Collector Md
Jewel Miah, Sub-Engineer of the DPHE Rakibul Islam, representative of
Friendship Shakil Ahmed, representative of SKS Foundation Ashraful Alam,
representative of Bangladesh Red Crescent Society district unit Amal Kumar
Pramanik.

Executive Engineer of the DPHE Shayhan Ali said Global Handwashing Day is
observed on October 15 every year to raise awareness about the importance of
hand washing with soap as a way to prevent disease and save lives.
 
Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs,
including the germs that cause COVID-19, cholera, diarrhea, and pneumonia.

Hand washing with soap and water is an easy and effective way to prevent
diseases and save lives as well, he also said.
 
After using toilet or before eating, hand washing can dramatically reduce the
risk of diarrhea and pneumonia which can cause serious illness and death, he
continued.

In this context, he emphasized the need for creating awareness among all
particularly the children about the importance of hand washing in a bid to
prevent communicable diseases.
 
Earlier, the executive engineer discussed the correct methods of hand washing
elaborately and practically showed it which is enjoyed by the participants
with curiosity.

ADC-General Abdul Awal urged the concerned to popularize the hand washing
activity to the people to build a communicable disease free society.

Earlier, a grand rally was brought out from the DC office premises and it
ended at the same venue after parading the main roads of the district town.

A large number of people including teachers, students, scouts leaders,
district and upazila level officials took part in the programmes.