Water stagnating athome? Dengue-warycorpn to slap fines

Chennai: Don’t be surprised if the door-to-door survey worker is accompanied by another Greater Chennai Corporation official who will insist on inspecting your terrace or balcony.
The civic body has begun implementing anti-dengue measures in full swing. Corporation commissioner G Prakash on Tuesday said they will fine residents if stagnant water, where dengue mosquitoes breed, is found on their premises.
According to the fine structure, owners of houses will be issued notices during the first violation, slapped a Rs 100 fine for the second violation and a Rs 200 penalty for the third violation.
Apartment complexes will be fined Rs 500 for the first, Rs 5,000 for second and Rs 15,000 for the third violations. Small shops will be fined Rs 500 for first-time violations, Rs 2,000 and Rs 5,000 for second and third violations. Commercial establishments, government buildings and industries will have to pay Rs 10,000 for first, Rs 25,000 for second and Rs 1 lakh for third violations. Fines are applicable for other schools, colleges and other institutions, construction sites, hospitals among others.
Prakash said anti-dengue measures include clearing of solid waste and keeping an eye on empty plots. “The traffic is increasing. So we have to ensure that garbage is picked up quickly. This is why we held a meeting of conservancy inspectors and supervisors today,” he said.
Prakash said empty plots, especially in added areas such as Ambattur and Alandur, must be kept under a close watch. “If water stagnates here, it is a danger for neighbours as well. Cleanliness of such plots is the responsibility of the owners,” he said.
Prakash said residents should watch out for water stagnation in defrost tray of refrigerators, tyres and coconut shells, tanks on terraces and backyards of homes.