Chennai, July 21 || As Chennai braces for the peak dengue season, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has intensified vector control and source reduction measures across the city following a sharp rise in dengue cases this year.
From January to July 8, 2025, the city recorded 522 cases -- up from 381 during the same period in 2024.
The civic body’s vector control department has ramped up efforts, especially in high-incidence zones.
Adyar emerged as the worst-affected area this year, reporting 111 cases, followed by Shollinganallur with 63.
In June alone, over 23 tonnes of waste, including 2,690 kg of used tyres and 20,455 kg of water-holding containers like broken pots and drums, were cleared citywide to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds.
Notably, Adyar accounted for the highest waste removal at 3,596 kg. Officials noted that Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit dengue, breed in clean stagnant water often found inside homes.
“Water collected inside unused tyres, broken containers, sunshades, and even refrigerator trays can serve as breeding spots,” a vector control officer with the GCC said.
Historically, Adyar has consistently reported the highest dengue cases in the city, with over 250 cases in both 2023 and 2024. In contrast, zones like Royapuram and Tondiarpet generally report fewer cases, averaging around 57 and 63 annually.