KMC lacks infrastructure to fight vector-borne diseases

The KMC, moreover, seems to be the only municipality among other metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, which is still carrying on with the practice of fogging 8212; something that has become obsolete in other cities.

Environmentalists and entomologists often criticise the practice of fogging. Even the health department of the KMC agrees that fogging can cause severe health hazards because of its high carbon monoxide content. Moreover, fogging has become ineffective in destroying mosquitoes.

8220;Since the eco-behavioural pattern of mosquitoes has changed with time, fogging seems to be resistant to mosquitoes. Earlier the concept was based on the principle that mosquitoes remain in the room after sucking blood from an infected person and thus fogging was effective. But, now it has been found that after sucking blood the insects move out. So fogging cannot be effective now, 8220; said Debashis Biswas, vector control officer, KMC.

Sahidul Islam, joint commissioner of the KMC, however, said fogging has to be used 8216;under pressure8217;. Islam said: 8220;We are forced to practise fogging since it is more popular than other methods. There is a lack of awareness in common people about the negative effects of fogging. We are often asked by several councillors to use fogging in some areas. We also understand that fogging should be banned but we have to use it under pressure8221;.