Mosquito swarms plague city

Residents demand urgent fumigation by civic authorities

KARACHI:

A sharp rise in mosquito swarms across Karachi has triggered growing concern among residents, who say the lack of fumigation by municipal authorities has turned daily life into an ordeal and raised fears of mosquito-borne diseases.

Residents across Karachi are facing a worsening mosquito menace, with swarms reported in homes, mosques, offices and public spaces, as civic authorities are accused of failing to carry out routine fumigation.

Citizens say the situation has become increasingly alarming due to the absence of disinfectant spraying by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and the city's 25 town administrations.

The lack of preventive measures, they claim, has allowed mosquito populations to grow rapidly across several neighbourhoods.

According to residents, mosquitoes have made daily activities difficult, particularly during the evening and night hours. People attending prayers in mosques and those working late in offices report being constantly disturbed by mosquito bites.

The problem has become especially noticeable during the holy month of Ramazan, when large congregations gather for Taraweeh prayers. Worshippers say mosquitoes frequently disrupt prayers, particularly in open grounds, parks and large mosque courtyards where special prayer arrangements are made.

The growing infestation has also placed an additional financial burden on households.

Many residents have been forced to purchase mosquito coils, electric repellents and electric mosquito rackets in an attempt to protect themselves. Shopkeepers report a noticeable surge in the sale of such products in recent weeks.

Public health concerns are also mounting, as residents fear that the unchecked mosquito population could increase the risk of various mosquito-borne illnesses.