123 Kolkata: As the passenger count at Kolkata airport began to inch towards pre-pandemic levels, the airport's age-old tryst with mosquitoes returned to sting both the passengers and the airport's reputation.
Passengers transiting through the airport complained of mosquito infestations across various areas, including the terminal building, tarmac areas, airport shuttle buses, and aircraft cabins.
"I make it a point to wear socks and apply mosquito repellents when travelling through the airport this time of the year. During my travel last Sunday, I could clearly see passengers having a tough time because of the mosquitoes in the security hold area, near the boarding gate, as well as on the bus on my way to the aircraft. It's high time the authorities look for an effective solution," said Dwaipayan Roy, who was travelling to Bagdogra.
Another flier, Amrit Karar, said the situation is worse in the queue inside the aerobridges and mentioned that to avoid mosquito bites, he prefers to keep walking inside the passenger waiting zone at the security hold area.
Many passengers have expressed their anger through social media platforms. "Today I travelled here, there are a lot of mosquitoes everywhere which is intolerable. Govt should take immediate action," wrote Darpan Baranwal on Wednesday.
Due to its proximity to dengue-affected regions such as Baguiati and Kestopur, coupled with extensive grass growth and waterlogged sections within its grounds, the airport terminal remains susceptible to mosquito infestations. The issue was discussed in all the recent airfield environment management committee meetings, where the airport authorities urged the neighbouring civic bodies for better waste management and vector control programmes.
Airport officials said they implemented various vector control measures, including fogging operations, regular disinfection procedures, grass trimming, and drainage of stagnant water bodies. Despite these efforts, they continue to face challenges.
"During this time of the year, mosquitoes pose a significant challenge to us. However, our commitment remains steadfast in maintaining hygienic conditions throughout the airport premises," said airport director Pravat Ranjan Beuria.
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