Pune: With the monsoon expected to arrive earlier this year, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has ramped up its efforts to combat vector-borne and communicable diseases across the city. The civic body’s Insect Control Department has initiated multiple preventive measures to stop the spread of diseases like malaria, dengue, and chikungunya during the rainy season.
According to Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Health Officer at PMC, officials have been instructed to conduct surveys and spray insecticides in areas known for mosquito breeding. “Our teams have been directed to inspect containers, stagnant water sources, and other potential breeding grounds. Malaria workers are tasked with identifying infected individuals and ensuring timely medical intervention,” he said.
The department has also called for the deployment of ASHA workers, who will be trained to detect early signs of infectious diseases. These workers will play a key role in community outreach, identifying symptomatic individuals and guiding them to PMC-run hospitals for diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Dighe emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between various civic bodies—including the health, solid waste management, and encroachment departments, along with private agencies—to ensure a unified response to infectious disease outbreaks.
Each zonal and ward office has been instructed to stock an adequate supply of insecticides. In case of shortage, they have been advised to procure additional supplies from the central office in Kasba Peth. Special inspection drives are also being conducted at orphanages, senior citizen homes, and other vulnerable locations to eliminate breeding hotspots.
PMC’s preventive measures also include promoting Integrated Insect Management (IIM). This involves eliminating standing water, using biological methods such as introducing guppy fish into water bodies, and implementing chemical control through insecticide spraying.
“We are also focusing on raising awareness in schools, colleges, residential societies, and workplaces about the importance of mosquito prevention,” Dr. Dighe added.
Prevention Tips from PMC
Dos:
Empty and clean containers, coolers, and air conditioners once a week
Use mosquito repellents and nets, especially during the day
Spray aerosol repellents indoors during daytime
Regularly clean drains and garbage bins to remove stagnant water
Don’ts:
Avoid wearing short or sleeveless clothes in mosquito-prone areas
Don’t let children play outdoors in shorts and half sleeves
Never discard broken utensils, tyres, or containers in open spaces
Don’t ignore standing water in and around your house
PMC has appealed to all citizens to cooperate in this drive to keep the city safe from seasonal disease outbreaks during the upcoming monsoon.
