“Are yaar, kitne machhar hain! Aaj puri raat neend nahi aayi, in machharon ne sone hi nahi diya.”
This is a complaint heard from almost everyone in the past few days. Mosquitoes are biting and disappearing, leaving residents frustrated. Many suburbs are struggling with this issue, and even people living on the 17th or 18th floor of high-rise buildings are clueless about how mosquitoes are reaching such heights. Despite staying in clean and well-maintained areas, residents continue to face this growing mosquito menace.
Mumbai is facing an alarming and persistent rise in mosquito populations, creating discomfort for residents across the city. Despite efforts by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to curb the issue, the problem continues to grow, particularly in suburban areas where stagnant water, blocked drains, and construction sites have created breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Citywide Mosquito Infestation Worsens
From Sion and Versova to Andheri and Dadar, residents have reported worsening mosquito infestations throughout the year. The increase in Culex mosquitoes, particularly in certain areas, has made it challenging for people to keep their homes mosquito-free. Many are resorting to shutting their windows in the evenings to prevent swarms from entering, while fumigation and fogging efforts by authorities have provided only temporary relief.
Despite repeated complaints and interventions, the mosquito problem remains unresolved, raising concerns about public health risks, including the spread of diseases such as dengue and malaria.
Guppy Fish: A Natural Solution
In response to the crisis, some communities have turned to innovative mosquito control methods. Residents in areas like Sion and Versova have started introducing guppy fish into local drains and water bodies. These small fish feed on mosquito larvae, offering a natural, eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. This initiative has gained traction among both locals and experts as a sustainable method of controlling the mosquito population.
Rising Health Concerns and Expert Warnings
With the increasing mosquito population, cases of dengue and malaria have surged in various parts of Mumbai. Health experts have urged residents to take preventive measures, such as:
- Using mosquito nets and repellents
- Eliminating stagnant water sources in and around homes
- Wearing protective clothing to minimise exposure
- Reporting breeding sites to civic authorities
Despite ongoing awareness campaigns, many areas remain vulnerable due to unattended garbage dumps, clogged drains, and unchecked water accumulation at construction sites.
BMC’s Measures and Resident Demands
The BMC has intensified fumigation drives and issued notices to housing societies, urging them to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites. While these efforts have been somewhat effective, residents argue that more long-term and sustainable measures are necessary to bring the situation under control.
Citizens are calling for:
- Regular drain cleaning to prevent water stagnation
- Increased garbage collection to avoid waste-related mosquito breeding
- More widespread introduction of guppy fish as a biological control method
- Strengthened public awareness campaigns to educate residents about mosquito prevention
The Way Forward
As Mumbai continues to battle its worsening mosquito menace, the solution lies in collective efforts from both authorities and citizens. While the BMC’s ongoing initiatives play a crucial role, community participation in mosquito control measures will be essential for long-term relief.
Residents, civic bodies, and health experts must work together to implement sustainable solutions, ensuring that Mumbai does not remain trapped in this cycle of mosquito infestations and rising health risks.
