Dengue cases are surging across the country, with Karnataka facing the brunt of the outbreak. The state has now officially declared the situation an epidemic under the Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Act 2020. In response to the growing crisis, the government has introduced strict penalties for residential properties, commercial establishments, and construction sites found with unclean spaces conducive to mosquito breeding. These measures are aimed at controlling the outbreak and preventing further escalation.

As of this year, Karnataka has reported over 24,500 dengue cases, a sharp increase from last year’s 5,000 cases, underscoring the severity of the situation. While the state’s mortality rate due to dengue remains low, the authorities are determined to reduce the risk of deaths. Preventive action has become paramount, and the government has stepped up efforts to ensure that citizens comply with sanitation guidelines to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

The Karnataka government’s notification mandates that all property owners, tenants, builders, and anyone responsible for land or buildings must take immediate steps to maintain cleanliness and eliminate potential mosquito habitats. Failure to do so will result in fines.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), Bengaluru’s municipal corporation, has been authorized to inspect homes and other premises to check for compliance. If any breeding grounds are identified, fines ranging from ₹400 to ₹2,000 will be imposed. Urban areas face fines of ₹400, while rural areas face ₹200 penalties.

Commercial establishments such as offices and educational institutions face fines of ₹1,000 in urban areas and ₹500 in rural areas. Construction sites, notorious for waterlogging, are subjected to heavier fines of ₹2,000 in urban areas and ₹1,000 in rural zones.

The government is committed to enforcing these rules to combat the dengue epidemic and protect public health.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)