MAPUSA
In a move to tackle the growing mosquito infestation, the Calangute panchayat has significantly scaled up its fogging operations across the beach village.
The panchayat has recently acquired two new handheld fogging machines and has employed additional staff to operate them, aiming to cover all 11 wards of the village effectively. The handheld fogging machines, each costing approximately ₹57,000, were purchased following a decision by the panchayat members.
Calangute Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira highlighted the urgent need for this initiative, citing a lack of adequate attention from health authorities towards the village's mosquito problem. "The initiative of buying the fogging machines was taken by the panchayat members after we realised that the health authorities were not paying as much attention as required towards the Calangute village," Sequeira stated.
In addition to the initial purchase cost, the panchayat will also bear the ongoing expenses for the fuel required to operate the machines. Each of the new machines will be allocated across the 11 wards, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the areas. Fogging operations will be conducted daily between 5.30 pm and 7 pm, a schedule chosen to maximize effectiveness during peak mosquito activity.
Sequeira also emphasised the importance of community involvement in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases. "We want to appeal to people to not allow water to stagnate around their houses as mosquitoes breed in stored water. People who want fogging to be undertaken around their houses should contact their ward members," he said.
The intensified fogging efforts come at a critical time, with the onset of the monsoons bringing a rise in dengue cases across Goa. The coastal village of Candolim, in particular, has seen a significant increase in dengue incidences, prompting heightened concern and preventive measures in neighbouring areas like Calangute.
