Bhatkal: Amidst the rising cases of dengue fever in the old mohallas of Bhatkal, Municipal Chief Officer Neelkanth Mesta, accompanied by several officials, conducted a visit to various localities, including Farooqi Street, Takiya Street, Shazli Street, Ghausiya Street, and Main Road. The objective was to address the concerns of the public and identify potential solutions. However, the tour was cut short due to rain in the evening.
In the areas affected by dengue, residents expressed their grievances regarding the high prevalence of mosquitoes to the chief officer. Some individuals showcased their dengue-affected children, while others displayed mosquito bite marks on their bodies, underscoring the urgency for effective mosquito control measures such as fogging. The residents also pointed out stagnant water and mosquito breeding sites along the roadside. They raised complaints about unattended garbage piles in certain areas and leftover soil near drains after cleaning. Additionally, sewage accumulation in wells due to blocked UGD chambers was a major concern.
Upon observing mosquito breeding in the dry waste storage area outside the UGD pumping station in Ghausia Street, the Municipal Chief Officer took immediate action by sealing the well and instructed the municipal authorities to clean the area twice a week. He further assured the residents that mosquito breeding sites would be promptly cleared, and soil and garbage would be removed. Fogging initiatives would also be carried out as per the residents' requests.
Addressing concerns about the weak bridge on Ghausia Street, engineer Arvind Rao assured the residents that the bridge's vibrations were normal and posed no threat, urging them not to panic.
Residents also voiced their dissatisfaction with the garbage collection vehicle, stating that it often stopped at a considerable distance from their homes, inconveniencing them. The Chief Officer directed Senior Health Officer Sujiya Suman to ensure that the vehicle approaches closer to residences during garbage collection.
Regrettably, the visit was cut short due to unexpected rain. The municipal delegation pledged to revisit the areas and address the pending concerns. Municipal Councilor Fayyaz Mulla, along with Kausar Chamundi, were also present during the visit.