https://www.dtnext.in/news/chennai/chennai-corporation-fixes-nets-over-drain-to-end-mosquito-menace-gets-stungCHENNAI: With mosquito menace continuing unabated across Chennai, a recent initiative by the Greater Chennai Corporation to curb breeding has triggered widespread discussion and online ridicule, with videos related to the measure going viral on social media, according to a report by Maalai Malar.
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Mosquito density in the city has been on the rise across all seasons. While mosquito breeding typically peaks during the rainy months, residents say bites have become routine even during summer.
Following the northeast monsoon, the situation has worsened, with many residents complaining of sleepless nights and frequent fever cases.
People allege that civic measures such as fogging and spraying repellents are being carried out only nominally and have failed to bring lasting relief.
Many residents also claim that mosquito repellents and creams offer only temporary protection, while some are unable to use sprays due to allergies.
Amid growing complaints, Chennai Corporation officials have rolled out a new initiative to prevent mosquito breeding by covering rainwater drains with mosquito nets.
The project is being implemented in phases, beginning with areas such as Thiruvottiyur and Thiru.Vi.Ka. Nagar.
As part of the measure, small chambers have been installed to divert rainwater into drains. Mosquito nets are placed over the openings before the lids are closed, with officials stating that the step aims to prevent mosquitoes from escaping through the gaps in the drain covers.
However, the initiative has drawn sharp criticism online, with several netizens questioning its effectiveness. Mocking videos and posts comparing the move to earlier controversial measures have surfaced across platforms.
Many have recalled the thermocol sheets floated on the Vaigai dam during a previous administration to prevent evaporation — a move that failed within minutes and became a subject of statewide ridicule.
Drawing parallels, users have coined phrases such as “Thermocol yesterday, mosquito net today.”
Satirical posts with captions like “Chennai Corporation spreads nets to catch mosquitoes”, “Will termite spray be used to protect mosquito nets?” and “Thermocol for Madurai, mosquito net for Chennai” have flooded social media.
Popular Tamil film dialogues and comedy scenes featuring Vadivelu, Goundamani and Senthil have also been widely shared to mock the move.
Despite the criticism, residents say their only expectation is effective mosquito control. “Whatever it takes, mosquitoes must be eradicated from Chennai,” remains the common refrain among the public.