The Times of India             22.08.2013

BMC mulls spot fine for malaria source in houses

BHOPAL: Next time you call up the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) to complain about mosquitoes, just look around. If breeding source is inside residence or commercial compound, be ready to pay fine.

BMC commissioner Vishesh Garhpale said, "Stagnation of water will invite same fine for not maintaining clean premises. Spot fines to curb spread of malaria and dengue is a norm in cities like Delhi and Chennai."

Health authorities say using repellents and fogging operations are not enough. Many health officials have been critical of residents in Arera and other colonies for failing to clear stagnant water in unused tyres, uncovered tanks, wells, paper cups and pots.

To become law, the proposal would be introduced in the BMC council by next week, he added. Spot fine could range from Rs 50 to Rs 350 in Bhopal. Whereas spot fines in Delhi and Chennai range from Rs 1,000 up to Rs 5,000.

According to experts, most of mosquito breeding occurs in as little as 5mm of water - such as in plant pots or coconut shells.

In Bhopal this year, dengue has caused two deaths with 15 positive cases. 309 people have tested positive for malaria.