Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha today outlined several initiatives by the state government aimed at making Agartala city mosquito-free.

Speaking on the sixth day of the Tripura Legislative Assembly, Dr. Saha said that drains across the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) are regularly cleaned and monitored to prevent mosquito breeding.

He noted that mosquito populations rise when water stagnates after rainy or dry seasons. “Most drains in Agartala are now covered, but some areas still lack covered drainage. Controlling mosquitoes is challenging, even in large cities, but we are taking multiple preventive steps—regular cleaning of drains, roads, markets, and urban local bodies,” Dr. Saha explained.

For the 2024–25 and 2025–26 financial years, Rs 10 crore has been allocated to the AMC specifically for mosquito control and city cleaning initiatives.

Dr. Saha emphasized the importance of ponds and water bodies, but highlighted that stagnant water supports mosquito breeding. “Even in open water sources, mosquitoes can survive. Our approach is preventive: we continuously spray larvicide in drains, hospitals, and other areas, and use fogging machines to target adult mosquitoes. A public health standing committee in AMC monitors the situation and ensures timely action,” he added.

The Health Department is also distributing mosquito nets and conducting awareness campaigns to educate residents about the dangers of stagnant water. Leaflets are being circulated, and Gambusia fish are being released into small canals to prevent mosquito breeding.

“Residents must also maintain clean surroundings. Uncovered drains are being addressed, and ward secretaries and sanitary inspectors have been directed to keep close vigilance,” Dr. Saha said.