Karnataka declares dengue an epidemic: What does it mean?

The Karnataka government has declared dengue as an “epidemic disease” under The Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Act, 2020. This decision allows the government to enforce stricter measures to control the disease.

What does this mean?

1. New Rules and Fines: People, businesses, and construction site owners must prevent mosquito breeding. If they don’t, they can be fined between Rs 200 and Rs 2,000, depending on the location and property type.
2. Preventive Steps Required: Property owners need to cover water containers, get rid of waste properly, and ensure that no items collect water where mosquitoes can breed.
3. Empowering officials: Officials can inspect properties, give orders, and fine those who don’t follow the rules. If someone doesn’t take the required steps, the government can do it for them and charge them for it.
4. Public Responsibility: Everyone, including individuals and businesses, must work together to stop mosquito breeding and protect public health.