Mosquito Menace Plagues Mumbai Suburbs; BMC Vows To Clean Drains and Nullahs

Suburban residents in Mumbai are grappling with a surge in mosquito activity, particularly from the Culex mosquito, which has been causing a major nuisance in recent weeks. This problem, expected to persist until March, has prompted the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to intensify efforts to clean stormwater drains and nullahs, the primary breeding grounds for these mosquitoes. Residents, especially in areas like Aarey Milk Colony and along the Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road, are reporting significant mosquito problems despite the BMC's ongoing mosquito control measures.

High-rise complexes have been forced to keep windows shut during the evenings to avoid swarming mosquitoes. Daily fumigation and fogging efforts within buildings have not fully alleviated the issue, leaving many residents frustrated.
Tasneem Shaikh, a local resident, highlighted the worsening situation, saying, “The constant construction and debris around Mumbai have created the perfect conditions for mosquito breeding. Our building conducts fumigation, but due to strong winds near Aarey, it’s often ineffective. Even with mosquito nets, if windows are mistakenly left open, we’re swarmed.”

Concerns over public health risks have been raised by others, especially with the presence of debris, garbage, and dust, which provide ideal mosquito breeding grounds. “Mumbai is already facing poor air quality. The debris and stagnant water are contributing to the rise in mosquito-borne diseases, and the constant dust pollution worsens respiratory issues,” said Mridu Agarwal, another concerned resident. The mosquito menace has also disrupted family life, particularly for children, with many residents reporting sleep and study disturbances due to the constant buzzing and bites. Indu Singh, a parent, explained how the problem has worsened despite regular fumigation, impacting her children’s health and routines. Aparna Hitendra Pachkale from Versova shared similar experiences, saying, “We have to close our windows before sunset, or the mosquitoes come in hordes. With a young child at home, we take extra precautions, including using mosquito repellent.”

A BMC official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, explained that the Culex mosquito, which is currently troubling suburban residents, thrives in stagnant, polluted water. “During the monsoon, stormwater drains flow continuously, which prevents mosquito breeding. However, after the monsoon season, stagnation of water in certain areas creates ideal conditions for the Culex mosquito to breed. A single female can lay 100–200 eggs, and even if half of them die, millions can emerge from just one stormwater drain,” the official said. he official assured that the BMC is actively conducting fumigation in all affected wards, but acknowledged challenges due to the infrastructure.

"In many suburban areas, box drains are covered with heavy lids, making it difficult for our teams to access and spray chemicals effectively. However, we continue fumigating wherever possible," the official said, urging residents to support the ongoing efforts and take personal precautions, including using mosquito nets and repellents.As the mosquito problem continues to impact suburban communities, residents are calling for more effective action to prevent further health risks, while the BMC remains committed to its ongoing clean-up and fumigation initiatives.