The Times of India 13.03.2013
Public role very important in curbing menace
COIMBATORE: While various
charges are levelled against the corporation over its haphazard handling
of mosquito control activities, the role and participation of the
public assumes equal importance. "The corporation has been bearing the
brunt of the criticism regarding the mosquito menace, but the public
needs to support the civic body in its efforts to curb the menace. Only
then can they succeed in eradicating the bugs," said a sanitary
inspector. Every time they carry out source reduction activities, they
notice the recklessness of the public as they continue to leave grinding
stones, tyres and vessels in the open. "They are very quick to transfer
the responsibility to us," said the official.
The menace is much worse outside corporation limits as residents continue to inadvertently encourage breeding. It has also been alleged that the public do not allow corporation workers to carry out fogging activities indoors. According to the manual, fogging will be effective only when it is done both outdoors and indoors.
"Mosquito control is a complex issue and active participation of all stakeholders is necessary to move forward," the sanitary inspector said. Wearing protective cloths, using insecticide treated mosquito nets, installing wire mesh on windows and using mosquito repellents are some measures that the public can take to protect themselves. The public can play a major role by keeping water tanks, containers and vessels dry. They must be cleaned at least once a week.
Fogging and source reduction measures are just one part of the mosquito control programme. Only when the public participates responsibly, can the mosquito menace be controlled.
The menace is much worse outside corporation limits as residents continue to inadvertently encourage breeding. It has also been alleged that the public do not allow corporation workers to carry out fogging activities indoors. According to the manual, fogging will be effective only when it is done both outdoors and indoors.
"Mosquito control is a complex issue and active participation of all stakeholders is necessary to move forward," the sanitary inspector said. Wearing protective cloths, using insecticide treated mosquito nets, installing wire mesh on windows and using mosquito repellents are some measures that the public can take to protect themselves. The public can play a major role by keeping water tanks, containers and vessels dry. They must be cleaned at least once a week.
Fogging and source reduction measures are just one part of the mosquito control programme. Only when the public participates responsibly, can the mosquito menace be controlled.
