Mumbai: In a strategic move to address the city’s persistent mosquito problem, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has opted to use Cyphenothrin, an insecticide developed by Japan’s Sumitomo Chemicals, renowned for its efficacy in exterminating adult mosquitoes. This decision comes in response to a significant rise in mosquito-borne diseases, including malaria and dengue.
Last year, Mumbai witnessed over 7,000 cases of malaria and more than 5,500 cases of dengue, with the latter resulting in a double-digit death toll. The situation has shown no signs of abating, as malaria cases have surged by 35% this year, attributed largely to extensive construction activities across the city. By the end of May, 338 dengue cases were reported, although there has been a notable decrease in chikungunya cases, dropping from 61 last year to 21 this year. With the monsoon season underway, officials anticipate a further escalation in mosquito-borne illnesses.
In response, BMC teams commenced the application of Cyphenothrin last week, marking the reintroduction of this insecticide in Mumbai after an eight-year hiatus. Official from BMC’s insecticide department, explained that field tests were conducted to evaluate Cyphenothrin’s effectiveness. In R north ward, the chemical was sprayed on mosquitoes confined in trap boxes, resulting in their death within five minutes. “We conducted field tests on Culex mosquitoes, which are highly resistant to chemicals and pollutants and are commonly found in gutters. We believe if the chemical proves effective on them, it should work well against Anopheles and Aedes mosquitoes.
Cyphenothrin is endorsed by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP). However, there have been some reservations from Sumitomo Chemicals regarding participation in government tenders, according to an informed source. Given the consistent rise in malaria and dengue cases, Mumbai is intensifying its action plans. Earlier this month, teams from Delhi, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and NVBDCP visited Mumbai to collaborate on mosquito control strategies.
Another official from BMC mentioned that the city will implement a specialised “foci” method during the rainy season to tackle dengue and malaria, focusing on specific wards with the highest number of cases. This targeted approach aims to curb the spread of mosquito-borne diseases more effectively.
The reintroduction of Cyphenothrin reflects BMC’s proactive stance in enhancing public health measures and safeguarding the city’s residents from the growing threat of mosquito-borne diseases. The concerted efforts of local authorities and international health organisations underscore the critical importance of innovative solutions in the fight against these pervasive public health challenges.
