Hyderabad is stepping up its fight against the growing mosquito problem. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is launching high-tech mosquito control efforts, focusing on the worst-affected areas.
To tackle the issue more effectively, the GHMC’s Entomology Department is now using drones to spray anti-larval chemicals over lakes and other water bodies. These drones can cover one acre in just 10 minutes, reaching places that are impossible to access manually.
Manual spraying had many challenges. Workers had to enter polluted waters filled with water hyacinth, which made it hard and dangerous. Many even faced skin infections and health risks. Now, with drone technology, spraying is faster and safer.
The drone operations are currently targeting mosquito-prone areas like Shah Hatim Lake, Balakpur Nala, the Musi River, and Katora Houz in the Karwan constituency. These spots are known breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Kausar Mohiuddin, MLA of Karwan, took the lead in addressing the issue. Responding to numerous complaints from residents, he approached GHMC Commissioner RV Karnan and asked for drone-based spraying. “We planned this operation for days to ensure it works well,” said Mohiuddin.
People across the city have been reporting sleepless nights due to mosquito bites and buzzing. Many also blame the growing problem on poor garbage management. They say the Sanitation Department is not clearing waste on time, which worsens the mosquito menace.
In response, GHMC has introduced a digital feature called ‘Fogging on Request’ in the ‘My GHMC’ mobile app. This tool allows citizens to ask for fogging services directly from their phones.
Here’s how it works: After logging into the app, users can send a fogging request. The app forwards it to an assistant entomologist, who assigns the job to a fogging worker in that area. Once the fogging is done, the worker uploads a photo with location details to confirm the task is complete.
With drone spraying and digital tools, GHMC is aiming to reduce mosquito-borne diseases and make nights more peaceful for Hyderabad residents.
