VALPOI: Even as the health authorities in the state claim to be busy with the drives against vector-borne diseases, stagnant water, which is a perfect ground for mosquito breeding, opposite the Community Health Centre at Valpoi lays bare the hollow claims of the authorities.

The stagnated water is in the close vicinity of a residential area near Hathwada Masjid.

The rain water has been accumulated there due to the presence of large heaps of mud.

"This pond has now turned into a breeding ground for mosquitoes" pointed out a resident.

Even the drains in the residential area are choked and an unbearable stink pervades the area. With the situation like this, the residents have now expressed fears of the outbreak of diseases like malaria. "It is a matter of concern that the spot is very close to the residential area besides the Community Health Centre," said a businessman from the residential area.

Meanwhile, when ‘The Navhind Times’ visited the CHC to enquire about the stagnated water, no officials were available to comment on the matter. The residents here have requested for immediate steps on the part of the health and civic authorities to make way for the stagnated water or spray the water with anti-larval chemicals. The VMC engineer, Mr Nadim Shaikh, when informed about the situation in the area, affirmed that no fogging was done there till date. He, however, issued directions to the civic staff to undertake clearing of the drainages and to spray the pond with anti-larval chemicals.