Mosquito menace, straying of animals take centre stage at Avadi council meet

Chennai: Concerns over the rising mosquito menace and growing number of stray animals dominated Avadi corporation's first council meeting of the year. Councillors from several wards on Friday said residents faced serious health and safety risks due to a lack of preventive action by civic authorities.Councillors from wards 14, 22, 34, and 48 complained that mosquito fogging had not been carried out for several weeks despite repeated complaints. A lack of preventive measures could lead to an increase in dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases, they said. "Every time we contact corporation officials for fogging, we are assured of action, but nothing follows. At least 20,000 residents live in our area," said ward 15 councillor V Ammu.Councillors spoke about the concentration of stray dogs, cattle and horses across Avadi. A survey by the civic body revealed the presence of 18,674 stray dogs, an average of 500 a ward. No data is available on the pet dog population.Official records show at least 2,000 cattle moving freely on city roads, causing traffic disruptions and accidents. Residents said at least 20 horses are frequently seen in several areas, particularly along the 60-Feet Station Road. They feed on open rubbish dumps and toppled waste bins.Ward 39 councillor S Sarala said, "Corporation workers do not show up regularly to clear the waste in our area. It piles up for up to four days."Corporation commissioner R Saranya said the mosquito problem spiked recently because of intermittent showers. "Regular mosquito fogging will be taken up, and actions will be taken to isolate aggressive dogs," she said.