Why have malaria cases doubled at Mumbai construction sites in 2025?

The increase is attributed to early monsoons, heavy rains leading to more mosquito breeding, and intensified screening by the BMC.

What is the BMC doing about the rise in malaria cases?

The BMC is conducting aggressive screening, increasing insecticide use, improving parasite control, and providing treatment to infected workers.

Are construction sites in Mumbai becoming malaria hotspots?

Yes, data shows a significant rise in malaria cases among workers at these sites, prompting calls for enhanced fogging and safety measures.

Home / Health / Mumbai Malaria Cases Surge: Construction Sites Hotspots

Mumbai Malaria Cases Surge: Construction Sites Hotspots

2 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Malaria cases at Mumbai construction sites more than doubled this year.
BMC screened significantly more workers, leading to higher detection rates.
Early monsoon and heavy rains are blamed for increased mosquito breeding.

Mumbai Malaria Cases Surge: Construction Sites Hotspots

Malaria cases among construction workers in Mumbai have seen a significant increase, more than doubling this year compared to the previous one. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported 38 positive cases during recent screening drives, a sharp rise from 17 cases during the same periods in 2024. This surge is partly explained by a considerable increase in the number of workers screened.

Civic officials attribute the escalating numbers to an early monsoon and persistent mosquito-breeding conditions due to heavy rainfall. The BMC has intensified its screening strategy, aiming for early detection and treatment of infected individuals to prevent wider transmission. This proactive approach involves extensive testing across numerous construction sites.

Despite increased testing, concerns remain about the implementation of anti-malaria measures on the ground. Advocates point to potential lapses by both the civic body and private contractors, highlighting construction sites as potential hotspots. The BMC, however, stresses its commitment to insecticide use, parasite control, and comprehensive treatment for detected cases.