Published Apr 30, 2026 | 3:18 PM ⚊ Updated Apr 30, 2026 | 3:18 PM
Representative image of a mosquito
Synopsis: The Madras High Court ordered a statewide survey across Tamil Nadu to identify mosquito breeding hotspots amid rising complaints and disease risks. Authorities have been directed to strengthen sanitation measures and public participation to prevent outbreaks like dengue and chikungunya.
The Madras High Court directed the Tamil Nadu government to conduct a statewide survey within four weeks to identify mosquito breeding hotspots, amid growing complaints about rising mosquito density across urban and rural areas.
First Division Bench of Chief Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari and Justice G Arul Murugan asked all municipal corporations, municipalities, and panchayats to coordinate with the health department to map high-risk zones, step up sanitation efforts, and prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases.
Also Read: Madras High Court clears maternity leave for third pregnancy in Tamil Nadu
The direction comes amid mounting concerns about the rising risk of diseases such as dengue and chikungunya, especially given poor waste management and water stagnation in several areas.
The court has mandated strict monitoring of construction sites to ensure there is no water stagnation, warning that builders violating sanitation norms will face penalties.
“Civic bodies should intensify drain cleaning, sewer desilting, and fogging operations, particularly in vulnerable zones,” the Court ordered.
In addition, authorities must publish schedules for these activities online and set up a helpline within a month to address public complaints within 48 hours.
“Public cooperation is equally critical, and negligence at the household level can contribute significantly to mosquito breeding,” the court emphasised.
Also Read: Gig workers push for protections as temperatures soar
“The statewide survey is very important as it helps identify mosquito breeding hotspots early, allowing targeted action to prevent the spread of diseases like dengue fever and chikungunya,” said Dr Praveen Kumar Reddy, Consultant in General Medicine at SRM Prime Hospital, Chennai.
Such measures can significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks, he explained to South First.
He added that community participation is key to controlling the problem.
“Residents should ensure there is no stagnant water in and around their homes, including in containers, plant pots, and drains,” he urged.
Regular cleaning, proper waste disposal, and covering water storage can go a long way in preventing mosquito breeding
With the monsoon season approaching, authorities and health experts warn that early action and sustained vigilance will be essential to keep mosquito-borne diseases in check across the state.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil.)
