GCC deploys 2,073 breeding checkers to combat dengue in Chennai

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has intensified its vector control measures across Chennai this July after the city recorded at least 65 dengue cases. The civic body launched door-to-door fogging, domestic breeding checks, and construction site inspections to curb the spread of the mosquito-borne disease.

According to GCC’s Chief Vector Control Officer, S Selvakumar, the dengue season in the region typically begins in June and peaks in November, before declining by February. He stated that the civic body initiated these measures to ensure an early intervention and prevent a major outbreak.

To execute the domestic breeding checks, the GCC has deployed 2,073 domestic breeding checkers (DBCs) across the city. The deployment is structured to assign one domestic breeding checker for every 500 houses to conduct regular inspections and eliminate potential breeding sites.

In addition to residential visits, the civic body has surveyed 8,000 new construction sites where work has not yet commenced. Selvakumar noted that water tends to stagnate in these vacant spots, which is sufficient for Aedes mosquitoes to breed. The DBCs have been instructed to inspect these locations and fine property owners who fail to comply with safety guidelines.

To further regulate these sites, the GCC’s buildings department has instructed assistant engineers to issue official notices to builders if construction activity ceases for a period of 15 days.

The vector control drive also targets Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB) residential complexes. Officials have begun inspections in these colonies, where residents frequently store water in open drums connected to 1hp motors. This practice of keeping water in open containers poses a significant risk of mosquito breeding, prompting the targeted checks by the civic body to eliminate stagnant water.