When the monsoon rains returned to Khulna City last year, so did dengue. Fueled by rapid urbanization, inadequate waste management, and climate change, mosquito-borne diseases have long challenged the city. But in 2025, a new force emerged to tackle this threat — the community itself.

“Keeping our surroundings clean is not just the City Corporation’s job — it’s our shared duty,” says Molla Maruf Rashid, a resident of Ward 30. “We now understand how collective action can protect our health.”

On 26 April 2025, Molla Maruf Rashid joined more than 200 residents in a city-wide cleanup as part of the Healthy City campaign, under the WHO Initiative on urban governance for health and well-being. The campaign put people at the center of health action—demonstrating that community-led solutions can be powerful tools for disease prevention.

The campaign began in Ward 30, one of the hardest-hit areas, where stagnant water had turned into mosquito breeding sites. Through community meetings, residents co-designed practical solutions: drain stagnant ponds, improve waste disposal, and raise awareness.

On cleanup day, residents worked alongside city officials, ward commissioner, and volunteer groups including the “BD Clean”, clearing the pond and surrounding areas within hours. The effort not only improved sanitation but also galvanized community spirit.