Sat Mar 15 18:25:25 UTC 2025: ## Chennai Faces Mosquito Control Crisis Amidst Staff Shortages
**Chennai, March 16, 2025** – Chennai residents are facing a growing mosquito menace due to severe staff shortages in the city’s vector control program, according to reports. The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is grappling with insufficient manpower, impacting crucial mosquito control measures.
Ambattur ward 84 councillor J. John highlighted the critical situation, stating that only nine permanent workers, half of whom are nearing retirement, are responsible for mosquito control in areas like Korattur. He further criticized the inadequacy of temporary workers provided under the National Urban Livelihood Mission. The councillor emphasized the urgent need for at least seven additional workers to effectively address the problem.
The issue extends beyond the lack of field workers. A reduction in the number of entomologists within the GCC, coupled with unfilled vacancies, has further hampered efforts. While funding agencies like the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank have mandated a reduction in Group A and B officer vacancies to improve efficiency, this has inadvertently contributed to a decline in skilled and motivated workers for mosquito control.
Residents are demanding immediate action, including the deployment of additional workers to tackle mosquito breeding in storm-water drains and public spaces. Velachery resident S. Kumararaja stressed the need for increased monitoring of mosquito density in crowded areas.
The situation underscores a critical gap in Chennai’s public health infrastructure, highlighting the urgent need for the GCC to address the manpower shortage and implement effective strategies to combat the growing mosquito problem.
First Piper 