In an innovative move to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes, Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi has started spraying anti-mosquito chemicals in regions of the city that are flooded with water using drones. This creative strategy was launched in the Narela zone, namely in Rani Khera ward number 33. The recent heavy rains that have caused extensive water collection around Delhi, excellent breeding grounds for mosquitoes that spread diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya, make this campaign especially relevant.
According to Mayor Oberoi’s party, the Aam Aadmi Party, this is the first time drones have been used for this kind of work in Delhi. In order to properly manage the development of these vector-borne illnesses, Mayor Oberoi stressed the significance of tackling the underlying problem of waterlogging. She pointed out that the presence of dangerous animals in such soggy conditions frequently presents challenges for conventional pesticide spraying techniques, making drone technology a more effective and safe substitute.
The team successfully sprayed pesticide over 15 hectares in Rani Khera on the first day of the campaign, and they intend to carry out activities for a further 4–5 days. The mayor emphasized that the effectiveness of the anti-larval actions can be increased by using the drone-based technology to reach regions that municipal workers may find challenging to access.
In addition to the spraying program, the municipal government is educating the public about stopping mosquito reproduction by holding awareness campaigns in local resident organizations and schools. Oberoi asked locals to prevent water buildup in their own homes because anti-larval operations have become more difficult due to inadequate drainage that has been made worse by the recent record-breaking rainfall.
She also mentioned how some parts of Rani Khera lack adequate drainage systems, which has made it difficult to manage wet weather and carry out efficient mosquito control strategies. With the drone program ready to spread throughout Delhi, there is a clear strategic commitment to upgrading public health responses and enhancing community health as a whole.
Mayor Oberoi hopes that this project would not only lower the number of illnesses spread by mosquitoes but also increase public awareness and engagement, which will help create a better urban environment in the face of climate-related issues.
SOURCE :
HINDUSTAN TIMES
