The persistent mosquito menace around the Mula-Mutha river in Keshavnagar, Mundhwa, has come to an end as the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) successfully cleared the water hyacinth that had proliferated in the riverbed. The green hue of the river, caused by the water hyacinth, not only affected the aesthetic appeal but also led to an increase in mosquito and insect incidents.
Mangesh Dighe, Environmental Conservation Officer at PMC, informed Pune Pulse, “The extensive operation to remove water hyacinth in the Mula-Mutha river, spanning from Keshavnagar to Mundhwa Jackwell area, has been completed. Three fighter machines, four cranes, two motor boats, two boats, and 15 workers were deployed for this operation.”
The hyacinth issue is not unique to Keshavnagar and Mundhwa; other Pune areas like Kharadi, Katraj, Pashan, Jambhulkar Lake, and Mula-Mutha river have also faced challenges due to the rampant growth of water hyacinth. The Municipal Corporation is actively involved in constructing a bridge in the Kalyaninagar riverbed to address the issue.
Increased mosquito and insect infestation prompted PMC Commissioner Vikram Kumar to issue immediate instructions for the removal of water hyacinth using quadruple machinery. A comprehensive campaign was then launched to eliminate water hyacinth from the affected area.
Citizens, distressed by the impact on their living conditions, actively took to social media platforms to raise awareness and demand a swift resolution from PMC. Concerns over the potential health risks posed by mosquito-borne diseases, including Chikungunya, Malaria, and Dengue, were shared by residents.
Despite the challenges, citizens highlighted the importance of addressing the issue promptly and expressed hope for a healthier and cleaner environment along the Mula-Mutha river.
