Sri Lanka, June 16 -- The failure of local government authorities to properly manage waste is a major factor contributing to the recent rise in dengue cases across the country, Chairman of the Doctors' Trade Union Alliance for Medical and Civil Rights, Specialist Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa, warned.

He said the accumulation of garbage in many parts of the Western Province and other areas of the island has created ideal breeding grounds for dengue-carrying mosquitoes, with stagnant water collecting in discarded waste and enabling mosquito eggs to thrive.

Dr. Sanjeewa said that many local government institutions have failed to ensure regular waste collection and disposal, resulting in garbage piling up near homes, roadsides and other public spac...