Severe Mosquito Infestation in Chattogram: City Residents in Extreme Distress

Local Correspondent

The mosquito menace in Chattogram city has reached alarming proportions, causing severe distress to residents during both day and night.

In response to complaints, the Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) claims to spray 20 liters of insecticide daily in each ward. However, city-wide mosquito control requires at least 300,000 liters of insecticide annually.

Reports reveal that CCC procures only 25,000 to 30,000 liters of insecticide yearly, which is significantly inadequate. Due to this shortfall, daily spraying cannot be carried out sufficiently, leading to uncontrolled mosquito proliferation, according to several responsible officials.

The CCC stated that due to a shortage of adulticide, the primary insecticide for adult mosquito eradication, spraying activities had been entirely halted for a week. This has resulted in a significant increase in mosquito breeding and spread, severely disrupting the daily lives of city residents.

Experts report that the current infestation predominantly involves the *Culex* mosquito species, which usually breeds in the dry season and rapidly multiplies in high temperatures. While their breeding season is typically from December to March, recent temperatures exceeding 28 degrees Celsius and stagnant waste-filled water in drains and canals have caused a surge in larvae and increased breeding.

Most canals, drains, and sewers in the city are clogged with garbage, obstructing water flow and providing ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

To tackle the situation, the CCC has initiated several emergency measures, including procuring 25,000 liters of adulticide. Half of this amount has already been supplied, with the rest expected shortly.

Additionally, 100 fogging machines and 100 spray machines with significantly enhanced efficiency have been introduced. These machines can spray insecticide effectively even in distant areas across canals and drains.

Shariful Islam Mahi, CCC’s Malaria and Mosquito Control Officer, stated, “Due to the adulticide shortage, mosquito eradication activities were halted temporarily. Now, with new supplies, we plan to spray thrice daily—morning, afternoon, and evening. Previously, it was done twice a day.”

He expressed hope that the situation would be largely controlled within two weeks.

CCC Mayor and BNP leader Shahadat Hossain, elected by court ruling, emphasized, “We are prioritizing mosquito control. Effective insecticides have been procured with the help of the Army Welfare Organization, and efforts to source advanced insecticides are ongoing. Negligence in this matter will not be tolerated, and strict actions will be taken against those failing their responsibilities.”

He also mentioned exploring alternative methods, such as using fish and insects that feed on mosquito larvae.

CCC officials remain optimistic that these ongoing and planned initiatives will soon bring relief from the severe mosquito infestation in Chattogram city.

However, experts believe that success requires consistent mosquito eradication efforts and regular cleaning of canals and drains. Residents must also take responsibility by keeping their premises and surroundings clean and ensuring no stagnant water is left. Such collective efforts are crucial to overcoming the city’s mosquito crisis.