Chandigarh Launches Eco-Friendly Initiative to Combat Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Chandigarh Launches Eco-Friendly Initiative to Combat Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Chandigarh adopts an eco-friendly approach to fight mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue by releasing mosquito-killer Gambusia fish into stagnant water bodies. Learn more about this initiative aimed at reducing mosquito populations through sustainable methods.

The Department of Animal Husbandry & Fisheries, UT Chandigarh, in partnership with the Forest Department, has initiated an ecological approach to combat mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue. This collaborative effort, under the guidance of Sh. HariKallikat, Secretary of Animal Husbandry & Fisheries, aims to control mosquito populations in stagnant water bodies across Chandigarh.

On August 29, 2024, the Department released Gambusia, a mosquito-killer fish, into the pond at Butterfly Park. This strategic move is designed to reduce the larvae population of mosquitoes and restore ecological balance in stagnant water bodies. Sh. HariKallikat emphasized that Gambusia fish play a crucial role in controlling the spread of malaria and dengue, and the initiative will soon extend to other potential mosquito-breeding sites in Chandigarh.

Sh. Paviter Singh, Director of Animal Husbandry & Fisheries, highlighted that the Gambusia fish released in these water bodies are bred at the Government Fish Seed Farm located at the regulatory end of Sukhna Lake. The Department begins breeding and releasing Gambusia from August onwards, depending on the need. He also mentioned that the Government Fish Seed Farm in Chandigarh is the only facility in the northern region that breeds this rare fish, which is specifically stocked in stagnant water bodies to prevent mosquito breeding. Importantly, the public can acquire mosquito-killer Gambusia fish for free from the farm for release in stagnant water ponds, fountains, or even household ponds.

Dr. Kanwarjit Singh, Joint Director of Animal Husbandry & Fisheries, explained that Gambusia fish feed on mosquito larvae, reducing mosquito populations. A single adult Gambusia fish can consume between 100 and 300 mosquito larvae per day. These fish do not overpopulate and adapt to their environment, making them an effective and sustainable solution for mosquito control. Gambusia fish can also address the issue of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, known for spreading dengue, by eliminating their larvae in clean water bodies.

This initiative represents a significant step toward using eco-friendly methods to tackle the growing problem of mosquito-borne diseases in Chandigarh, combining environmental conservation with public health efforts.

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