[Misespimb]

With the prevalence of houseflies on the rise in various parts of the city, the Chennai Corporation on Thursday launched a drive to control the pests.

Concerned about the increasing numbers in many localities, the civic body has formed a group of 600 personnel. As many as 302 hand sprayers and 33 mechanical sprayers will be used to spray a pesticide to control the menace.

12JULYTH_KOYAMBEDU_1141827f.jpg

As houseflies lay eggs in decaying material, the civic body has asked private conservancy operator Ramky to remove garbage before it starts decaying. It is also likely to improve conservancy in zones controlled by its employees.

The civic body has also asked the private conservancy operator Ramky to remove garbage generated in Koyambedu market without delay. Decaying material in the market has led to a rise in the number in and around habitations in the area. As many as 140 tonnes of garbage has to be cleared by Ramky from the market area, which is controlled by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority.

Inaugurating the drive, Mayor Saidai S. Duraisamy stressed the need for spraying pesticides two times a day in areas with a high prevalence. These steps are being taken to prevent diseases such as cholera, dysentery and other communicable diseases caused by houseflies.

Special camps will be conducted in areas requiring special attention. Residents may call the corporation’s toll free helpline 1913 to report prevalence of houseflies and seek remedial action.

Source: The Hindu