Builder fined Rs 1 lakh over mosquito-infested work site

The Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) issued notice to Nitesh Estate Company and slapped a fine of Rs one lakh for lack of cleanliness at its construction site and violation of by-laws of Karnataka Municipal Act, 1976.

The Palike thus has cautioned builders and contractors against their unkempt construction sites which have turned into mosquito breeding grounds.

Dr Balachandra, health inspector (East) and Dr Suresh, during inspection, found mosquito larvae in an open drain along the workers’ toilets and stagnated water in deflated tyres dumped at the construction site opposite Cash Pharmacy on Residency Road.

Besides, Dr Balachandra said, water was stored in a floor for construction purposes which was filled with larvae of mosquitoes, the vectors of dengue.

He said there were at least three cases tested positive for dengue in the surrounding areas of the under-construction building lately. BBMP East Zone has reported 12 positive cases confirmed by National Institute of Virology (NIV) till date. 

Continuing the awareness drive about dengue, BBMP health inspectors along with their teams visited Kavalbyrasandra and Hebbal on Friday.

Twenty health teams visited over 9,000 houses and identified 400 locations where mosquito larvae were found. The teams emptied the stored containers, sprayed chemicals and educated the public about cleanliness.

The Palike will continue the awareness drive on Saturday at Korlappa Layout, Jayanna Layout, Papanna Layout, Munithimmaiah Layout and Sapthagiri Layout in Yelahanka.