Ludhiana: Tackling vector-borne diseases in the city is easier said than done, particularly when challans issued for violations remain unpaid.Civic officials issue challans based on inspections conducted by the health department to detect and destroy mosquito larvae at various locations across the city. However, recovering the penalties has proved to be a challenge. More than 400 challans have been issued this year, but officials claim that hardly anyone turns up to pay the amount. MC officials said violators often approach area councillors or MLAs seeking exemption from the penalty.Interestingly, the challan amount is only Rs 500.During meetings on the control of vector-borne diseases with various departments, the deputy commissioner directed officials to ensure recovery of dues from defaulters. Sources said officials were asked to consider measures such as withholding approval of building plans or taking other steps to compel violators to pay.However, the MC’s building branch declined to take such action. The civic body is now planning to send SMS alerts to residents with pending challans.An MC official said enforcement teams of the health department regularly inspect residential, commercial and other premises for mosquito larvae, particularly during the monsoon season, when stagnant water creates favourable breeding conditions.“The purpose of issuing a challan is defeated if the offender does not pay the penalty. We are now looking at sending reminders through SMS so that the person is clearly informed that the amount is pending,” said Vipal Malhotra, Medical Officer (Health), MC.
