Udupi: A partially completed construction site in the heart of Udupi city has emerged as a potential mosquito breeding ground, raising concerns over the risk of dengue as cases continue to increase in the district. Residents and local observers have expressed concern over stagnant rainwater that has accumulated at the site located adjacent to PPC College, urging authorities to take immediate preventive measures.
The construction site, reportedly belonging to businessman Anant Rai Kamath, owner of Jayalakshmi Stores in Kalsanka, has remained incomplete for several years. With only the structural pillars in place, rainwater has continued to collect within the premises, creating conditions conducive to mosquito breeding.
Stagnant water poses health risk
The incomplete building has become filled with stagnant water during the monsoon, prompting fears that it could serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes responsible for spreading dengue and other vector-borne diseases.
Residents have pointed out that the accumulated water has remained at the site for an extended period and that no effective measures have been taken to drain it.
With monsoon rains continuing, concerns have grown that the stagnant water could contribute to an increase in mosquito density in the surrounding neighbourhood.
College and residential areas nearby
The site is located close to PPC College, one of the city’s prominent educational institutions where thousands of students attend classes daily.
In addition to the college, the locality comprises hundreds of residential houses and a busy commercial area with numerous shops.
Residents believe the location’s proximity to educational institutions and densely populated neighbourhoods makes it essential for authorities to act swiftly to eliminate mosquito breeding sources before the situation worsens.
Call for proactive action by Health Department
Local residents have questioned the response of the Health Department, stating that preventive action should go beyond routine fogging operations.
They have urged officials to identify and eliminate stagnant water at abandoned or incomplete construction sites across the city, describing such measures as crucial in controlling the spread of dengue.
According to those raising the issue, merely carrying out fogging without addressing mosquito breeding sources may not be sufficient to contain vector-borne diseases.
Concern over delayed response
Residents also claimed that the issue had been brought to the attention of District Health Officer Dr Basavaraj G. Hubballi, but alleged that no visible action had been taken to address the stagnant water at the site.
They have appealed to the Health Department, Udupi City Municipal Council and other concerned authorities to inspect the premises and ensure that waterlogging is cleared immediately.
Public health experts have consistently emphasised that eliminating stagnant water is one of the most effective methods of preventing mosquito breeding and reducing the spread of dengue.
Need for preventive measures
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of regular inspections of abandoned and incomplete construction sites during the monsoon season.
Authorities are expected to monitor such locations closely, ensure compliance with public health norms and direct property owners to remove stagnant water wherever necessary.
Timely intervention, coupled with public awareness and source reduction measures, remains essential to preventing the spread of dengue in urban areas.
Conclusion
As dengue cases continue to be reported in Udupi district, residents have called for immediate action to eliminate stagnant water at the incomplete construction site near PPC College. Prompt preventive measures by the authorities and cooperation from property owners will be vital in reducing mosquito breeding and safeguarding public health.