TV
Public welfare in Berhampur is under threat as a severe mosquito infestation has taken over the city, raising concerns about the effectiveness of healthcare and civic infrastructure.
The open drains and stagnant water across several locations in the Silk City have turned into breeding grounds for mosquitoes with the locals alleging negligence by the Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BeMC) leading to such a situation.
Berhampur localities such as Giri Road, Ashok Nagar, and Kamapalli are particularly affected, with residents complaining about neglected drains filled with waste like plastic and garbage. The situation is said to have worsened due to years of insufficient cleaning.
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"We have no choice but to bear these mosquitoes. In the evenings, we use mosquito repellents to lessen the menace a bit. I have not seen any BeMC staff fogging the drains since the past year,” alleged T Shankar Narayan Patra, a local resident.
The menace seems to be worsening with each passing day with no adequate measure being taken by the BeMC.
Continuing their accusations, Berhampur locals stated that despite the rising mosquito population, mosquito-control vehicles have not been seen, and clogged drains have become a common sight everywhere.
“The drains are never cleaned here in my locality. I complained to the BeMC more than a month back and despite a visit by concerned officials, no action was taken,” claimed Hemant Kumar Patra, another local.
Notably, the incidents of rising mosquito swarms were also raised in the city municipal corporation. Moreover, questions were also posed on why chemicals meant for spraying in the 42 wards of the city have not been applied and anti-fogging machines left abandoned under tarpaulins at the municipal office.
In those BeMC meetings, officials attributed the lack of spraying to insufficient supplies of mosquito oil and diesel as the reasons behind delays in action.
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However, the mayor and commissioner have assured residents that immediate action will be taken to resolve this crisis.
“We have instructed health officials to stock necessary chemicals and diesel and begin anti-fogging operations. In 15 days, the issue will be addressed,” stated Sanghamitra Dalei, Mayor of Berhampur Municipal Corporation.
