Karnataka Declares Dengue Epidemic, Enforces Penalties for Mosquito Breeding Violations

Karnataka is grappling with its most severe dengue outbreak in a decade, prompting the state government to officially declare the disease an epidemic. With dengue cases surpassing 24,500 this year—nearly 5,000 more than all of 2023—the state is intensifying efforts to combat the spread of the virus. While fatalities have been relatively low, authorities are taking preemptive action to prevent a rise in deaths.

Under the Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Act, 2020, the government has mandated strict measures to curb mosquito breeding. Owners, occupiers, builders, and others responsible for properties must ensure their sites do not foster mosquito breeding. This includes water tanks, parks, playgrounds, and any other potential breeding grounds.

To enforce these rules, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and district deputy commissioners are empowered to inspect properties. Fines will be levied for non-compliance: ₹400 in urban areas and ₹200 in rural areas for residences; ₹1,000 in urban areas and ₹500 in rural areas for commercial establishments; and the highest fines of ₹2,000 in urban areas and ₹1,000 in rural areas for construction sites.

Dengue, transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, typically causes high fever, severe headaches, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. The outbreak is particularly concerning during the monsoon season when mosquito breeding conditions are most favorable.

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