Manikonda residents struggle with worsening mosquito infestation; Demand action

Hyderabad: Residents of Ibrahim Bagh and surrounding areas of Neknampur Lake in Manikonda, Hyderabad, are facing a severe mosquito infestation that is becoming a public health concern. According to the residents, despite claims of ongoing anti-larvicide efforts, the situation has worsened, with swarms of mosquitoes making it nearly impossible for residents to step outside after 6 p.m. The growing health risks have led to calls for urgent action.

Shaik Aarif Mohammed, General Secretary of the Citizens' Council and admin of Apna Manikonda, told the Hyderabad Mail that the mosquito crisis is affecting not only Ibrahim Bagh and Neknampur Lake, but also nearby areas such as Alkapur Township, Pioneer Estate, EVV Colony, Blue Lagoon Villas, Spectrum Lake Villas, Sri Venkateshwara Colony, Fairfield Colony, YSR Enclave, and Bapu Hills.

“The situation is getting worse each day,” Aarif said. “The residents are deeply concerned about the growing mosquito problem.”

Despite efforts to raise awareness, Aarif’s calls for action have yet to result in any response from local authorities. According to Apna Manikonda, the admin, the Citizens' Council, and residents from nearby colonies have submitted a formal petition to the Manikonda Municipal Commissioner, but there has been no official response.

Ajay Reddy, a resident of Alkapur, said that he has used technology to highlight the extent of the infestation, while Rameez Mohammed of Pioneer Estate plans to leave the area for ten days to escape the mosquito plague. Both are concerned about the health risks, particularly to children and women, who are more vulnerable to mosquito-borne diseases.

Residents are demanding increased and more frequent fogging operations to reduce the mosquito population. They are also calling for stronger anti-larvicidal treatments to prevent further breeding and spread. In addition, they are requesting regular monitoring and cleaning of stagnant water sources, particularly around Neknampur Lake and the surrounding areas, to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.

Furthermore, residents are urging a swift public health response to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. This includes setting up medical support in affected areas and launching awareness campaigns to educate the public about how to protect themselves.

A recent post by Apna Manikonda on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) highlighted the problem, stating, “Severe mosquito menace in Manikonda, Ibrahim Bagh & Neknampur Lake areas! Residents are unable to step out after 6 PM due to swarms of mosquitoes. Despite anti-larvicide operations, no impact! Women & children are falling sick. Urgent intervention needed! @ManikondaMc”

Tips to Prevent Mosquito Breeding:

1. Eliminate standing water by regularly emptying containers, buckets, and trays.
2. Clean gutters to prevent water accumulation.
3. Cover water storage containers with tightly sealed lids.
4. Use mosquito nets around open windows and doors.
5. Keep lawns trimmed to reduce mosquito hiding spots.
6. Properly dispose of waste to prevent water collection in discarded items.