Tiny insects, big winter trouble;

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

With the arrival of winter, an unwelcome visitor has returned to trouble citizens ‘chilta’, commonly known as fruit flies. These tiny insects are being seen in large numbers across the city, hovering near garbage dumps, stagnant water on roads, uncovered food waste, and garden plants.

Breeding in damp areas

Fruit flies flourish in cool and humid conditions. Areas with moisture such as rotting fruits, organic garbage, waterlogged streets, and uncovered leftover food become ideal breeding grounds. Due to their extremely small size, fruit flies spread rapidly, making their presence felt in almost every part of the city.

Risk for two-wheeler riders

What appears to be a minor nuisance has turned into a safety concern for two-wheeler riders. Riders travelling without helmets or protective goggles often experience fruit flies entering their eyes, causing sudden itching and watering. This momentary distraction can lead to loss of control and increase the risk of accidents.

Health concerns

Fruit flies are attracted to moisture on the human body, including sweat, tears, and damp skin. They lay eggs in stagnant water and decaying waste, returning repeatedly to the same locations. Their presence can cause itching, skin irritation, and, in some cases, infections. The life span of a fruit fly is around 21 days, and its population declines as temperatures rise.

Clean habits key to control

Preventing the spread of fruit flies begins at home and in public spaces. Citizens are advised not to leave leftover food, rotten flowers, or fruit waste in the open. Proper disposal of organic waste, maintaining kitchen hygiene, and avoiding stagnant water can help curb the winter surge of fruit flies.

“Do not keep leftover food at home. The drier and cleaner the house, the more hygienic it remains. Maintaining personal cleanliness and regular sanitation helps keep fruit flies away and significantly reduces the risk of infections.”

— Dilip Yardi, environmentalist

“While driving, this problem causes major discomfort. Fruit flies can directly hit the cornea, leading to eye trauma and injury. Eye infections have increased, which may result in blurred vision. These conditions are usually not serious and are recoverable, but injuries can occur. Exposure to insects from stagnant water and garbage can also lead to infections and stomach-related problems. Wearing a helmet or protective glasses while riding and maintaining cleanliness are essential preventive measures. If any such infection is noticed, a doctor should be consulted at the earliest.”

— Dr Rajiv Mundada, ophthalmologist

(AI Image)