Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Jun 20: The Goa government has prohibited mosquito fogging by individuals, private agencies and resident associations without prior approval from the competent health authority, warning that unauthorised operations could pose serious health and environmental risks.
In a circular issued on June 19, the Health Department said it had noticed mosquito fogging activities being carried out at various locations by individuals, private agencies, resident welfare associations and other organisations without approval from the department or local authorities.
The department termed the practice a “serious concern”, stating that indiscriminate use of insecticides could create health hazards, especially for children, senior citizens, pregnant women and people suffering from respiratory conditions.
The circular warned that improper fogging methods could result in environmental contamination, harm beneficial insects and biodiversity, and increase insecticide resistance among mosquito populations, affecting the effectiveness of government vector control programmes.
The department also pointed out that unauthorised operators may use unapproved chemicals, incorrect dosages or improper spraying methods, which could interfere with scientific mosquito surveillance and control measures.
“No mosquito fogging shall be carried out by any individual, private agency, institution, resident welfare association or organisation without prior approval of the competent health authority,” the circular stated.
The Health Department said mosquito fogging will be conducted only by authorised personnel using government-approved insecticides and following the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the department.
All requests for mosquito fogging must now be submitted through the respective Primary Health Centre, Community Health Centre, Urban Health Centre, Directorate of Health Services or concerned local body for assessment and necessary action.
The government has directed panchayats, municipal councils, government departments and educational institutions to ensure that no unauthorised fogging activity takes place within their areas.
The circular further stated that agencies involved in fumigation or mosquito fogging must obtain approval from the Plant Quarantine Station (PQS), Goa, under the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine and Storage (DPPQS), Government of India, along with licence or approval from the Goa Directorate of Agriculture.
“No agency shall be permitted to undertake fumigation or mosquito fogging operations unless it has obtained the required approvals from both the Central (DPPQS/PQS) and the State Directorate of Agriculture, wherever applicable,” the department said.
The government added that operating without the mandatory permissions would be treated as a criminal offence and could pose serious health risks to residents.