Dengue cases surge in Bengaluru amid heavy rains; BBMP enforces stricter penalties

Bengaluru is facing a worrying rise in dengue cases as continuous heavy rainfall creates ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. Over 210 new dengue cases have emerged in the past week alone, pushing the active case count within Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) limits to approximately 1,582. From January to July, the total number of reported infections has exceeded 2,800, intensifying concerns for public health authorities.

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In response, the BBMP and the Health Department have ramped up enforcement efforts to control mosquito breeding, especially in high-risk zones with stagnant water and inadequate sanitation.

To ensure compliance, authorities have introduced significantly higher fines for negligence. This year, urban homeowners may be fined ₹800, while their rural counterparts face ₹400. Commercial establishments, schools, and public venues could be fined ₹2,000 in urban areas and ₹1,000 in rural zones. The highest penalties apply to vacant plots and construction sites, at ₹4,000 (urban) and ₹2,000 (rural).

Officials have warned that premises found with mosquito breeding sites will first receive a warning. If corrective actions are not taken, monetary penalties will follow, along with stricter enforcement. The move aims to curb the rising infections and mitigate further public health risks.