NGO calls for stricter action to curb mosquito breeding grounds in Panchkula

A city-based non-governmental organization (NGO) has raised the demand for punitive action against residents found guilty of harbouring mosquito larvae in their premises, warning that the absence of financial penalties is giving way for complacency and contributing to the steady rise in dengue cases.

Notably, unlike Chandigarh, where defaulters are penalised with fines, health officials in Panchkula merely issue warnings or notices—without any monetary deterrent. Last year alone, Panchkula recorded 1,324 cases of dengue, resulting in six deaths.

In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner (DC), Hiteshi Foundation chairperson Bharat Hiteshi urged the administration to constitute a joint enforcement team comprising officials from the Municipal Corporation and the Health Department. He stressed that such coordination is crucial to enforcing accountability and preventing the spread of vector-borne diseases.

“Every year, hundreds fall ill and hospitals run out of space. Over the past decade, more than 50 lives have been lost due to dengue. Despite these alarming numbers, no punitive action is taken against those responsible for mosquito breeding,” the letter read.

According to Hiteshi, officials have told him that the authority to fine violators lies solely with the Municipal Corporation under the Municipal Act.

The group drew attention to “sensitive zones” in the district that remain especially vulnerable —Old Panchkula, Ghaggar Hut, Surajpur, DLF, Amravati, Kalka, Kheda Sitaram, Upper Mohalla, Tarpur, Bitna and Madawala in Pinjore.

Foundation members including SK Sharma, BM Kaushik, RK Sharma, Brijlal Jain, meanwhile, reiterated the need for regular fogging across all sectors and intensified public awareness campaigns.