Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain has called upon citizens to make handwashing a daily habit and to inspire others to do the same, emphasising that personal hygiene is the foundation of a healthy society.
“To build a healthy society, everyone should make the habit of washing hands a part of their daily lives. Just as you wash your hands regularly, you should also inspire others to wash their hands,” said the mayor while addressing as the chief guest at an event marking World Hand Hygiene Day 2025 on Wednesday morning.
The programme, organised jointly by the Department of Public Health Engineering and the Chattogram District Administration, was held at the Chittagong Circuit House. The day was observed through a rally and a discussion meeting.
Dr Hossain reminded the audience that improper handwashing increases the risk of infectious diseases such as diarrhoea and typhoid. “We must remember that hands are the easiest means of carrying pathogens. Therefore, it is essential to wash hands with soap and clean water before eating, after using the toilet, and after coming into contact with a sick person,” he said.
He also expressed concern that the habit of regular handwashing developed during the COVID-19 pandemic is fading. “We need to bring that awareness back now. Children should be taught proper handwashing techniques from an early age, and facilities must be ensured in educational institutions, offices, courts, and public transport,” he added.
The CCC Mayor further said that clean water, sanitation, and safe food are the three pillars of public health. “The allocation for these sectors in government and local budgets should be increased further,” he emphasised.
Speaking as a special guest, Deputy Commissioner Saiful Islam said, “Inculcating the habit of washing hands can prevent numerous diseases both personally and socially. Although it is a small act, its impact is huge.”
Additional Deputy Commissioner (ICT and Education) Md Saiduzzaman, Executive Engineer of the Public Health Engineering Department Palash Chandra Das, and officials from various government and private organisations were present.
Various programmes, including rallies, discussions, and handwashing demonstrations, were also held in several upazilas of Chattogram district, including Chandanaish, Raozan, Eidgaon, Boalkhali, and Sitakunda.
