CHENNAI: Blocks in river mouths that restrict tidal wave action, unseasonal rains and an extended winter have fuelled the mosquito menace in Chennai.
Residents, particularly those who stay along the banks of these rivers, bear the brunt of the menace — both physically and financially.
“Recently, we had to spend nearly Rs 4,000 to buy mosquito repellent, two nets, three mosquito catchers and two electric rackets,” said B Ranjith, from Mogappair.
According to officials, the spike in mosquito population this time is due to a combination of factors, both man-made and natural. Mosquito larvae accumulated along the banks get washed away when the water recedes during tides.
However, the Public Works Department failed to dredge the river mouths and this reduced water flow, facilitating mosquito breeding, a corporation official told Express.
The prevailing weather is another factor. “Weather conditions have brought down the adulting period from seven to five days. This means there are five batches of mosquitoes rather than four every month. Also, their lifespan has increased from 22-23 days to 29-30 days, making our job tougher,” the official added.