The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) is poised to implement a significant shift in its mosquito control strategy, moving from thermal to cold fogging. This transition, announced a year ago, promises enhanced control over vector-borne diseases, cost reduction, and a decrease in air pollution.
The delay in adopting cold fogging was attributed to the procurement process for the necessary equipment, which has now been successfully acquired. Cold fogging operates by using high pressure to atomise liquid insecticide into fine particles, which are then dispersed through a nozzle. This contrasts with thermal fogging, which relies on heat to generate fumes. Officials overseeing fogging and anti-larval measures elucidated the advantages of this modern technique. They highlighted that current practices involve diesel-operated thermal fogging machines. These machines contribute to pollution and incur higher operational costs. In contrast, cold fogging utilises water mixed with insecticides, significantly reducing pollution levels. The minute droplets produced by cold fogging machines remain suspended in the air for longer periods, enhancing their efficacy in targeting mosquitoes and making the process more cost-effective.
An official remarked, “We are transitioning from thermal to cold fogging machines to leverage the latter’s benefits. The water-based solution creates a layer on surfaces that evaporates within a week, posing no harm to humans but effectively reducing mosquito activity. We plan to deploy both vehicle-mounted and modified existing machines, with a fleet of 50 large and 100 small units.” The adoption of cold fogging represents a strategic move towards a more sustainable and efficient approach to managing the mosquito menace in Lucknow. By reducing reliance on diesel and minimising environmental impact, the LMC aims to safeguard public health while also addressing the broader issue of urban air quality. This initiative not only underscores the city’s commitment to modernising its public health infrastructure but also sets a precedent for other municipalities grappling with similar challenges.
As Lucknow embarks on this new path, the positive implications of cold fogging are expected to extend beyond immediate mosquito control, fostering a healthier and more environmentally conscious urban environment.
