Telangana's Innovative Eco-Friendly Solution to Combat Mosquito Menace Draws Attention!
The District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) in Telangana has introduced a groundbreaking initiative called 'Shudhi Chedham' to tackle the persistent issue of mosquito infestation. Can the strategic planting of Canna Lily plants be the solution to this menace? Inspired by a successful experiment conducted last year in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, the DRDA aims to purify water and combat mosquito breeding by strategically planting Canna Lily or Indian Lily plants in drain-end-soak pits. This innovative approach signifies a significant shift towards sustainable sanitation and environmental health. Under the guidance of Project Officer Kothapally Vijayalaxmi, the DRDA has meticulously researched and prepared for this project. The initiative kicked off this month with the procurement of seeds and their nurturing in local nurseries. Ramnaik Thanda Boys Tribal Residential School has taken the lead in implementing this initiative by planting these specialized plants in various locations, including Kubeer Manda and Jhari B village. Once planted, these plants require zero maintenance as village workers ensure necessary watering. The project includes the construction of 1,100 community soak pits with investments ranging from Rs 15,000 to 50,000. By introducing Canna Lily plants in these soak pits, the initiative aims to reap dual benefits: the plants' natural water purification properties and their ability to hinder mosquito breeding by controlling stagnant water conditions. With their unique characteristics, Canna Lily plants not only purify the water collected in soak pits but also disrupt the growth cycle of mosquito eggs and larvae. The DRDA's goal is to cover all soak pits in the district with these purpose-raised plants, readily available in nurseries. The 'Shudhi Chedham' project represents a pioneering step towards harnessing nature's potential to enhance sanitation, promote environmental well-being, and mitigate mosquito-borne diseases. District Collector Ashish Sangwan has played a vital role in supporting the DRDA's efforts to combat the mosquito menace.
