Puttur’s Rural Communities Demand Action Against Housefly Menace

Puttur, June 24, 2025: People of Endasagu Janata Colony, Majjardak, and Golitila, nestled within the Ariyadka and Kedambadi Gram Panchayats of Puttur taluk, Karnataka, a severe housefly infestation has turned everyday life into a struggle. Swarms of houseflies are invading homes, landing on cooking utensils, snacks, and meals, creating unsanitary conditions and fueling fears of foodborne illnesses. (Representative Pic Credit- Pixabay)

According to Prajavani report, these villagers are grappling with the inability to prepare or consume food safely, raising alarms about potential health risks. Houseflies, known carriers of pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella, pose a serious threat of contaminating food, potentially leading to illnesses such as diarrhea, typhoid, or food poisoning, especially in households with children or elderly members. The housefly problem surfaced several days ago, with villagers reporting an overwhelming number of flies. “They are all over our pots, plates, and food. We can not cook or eat without them swarming. There is also a persistent foul smell, and it is making life unbearable.” said Endasagu Janata Colony villager Krishnappa Ajila.

Housefly Surge Sparks Health Concerns

The infestation began several days ago, with houseflies appearing in overwhelming numbers across Endasagu Janata Colony, Majjardak, and Golitila. Frustrated, villagers from Endasagu Janata Colony, Majjardak, and Golitila have lodged complaints with the health department and the Ariyadka and Kedambadi Gram Panchayats, urging immediate action.

“They are everywhere—on our pots, plates, and food. We can not cook or eat in peace, A foul smell is lingering, making life unbearable. Houseflies, known to carry pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella, pose a significant risk of food contamination, potentially leading to illnesses such as diarrhea, typhoid, or food poisoning, particularly in households with vulnerable members like children and the elderly.” said Krishnappa Ajila.

“The farm’s mismanagement is causing this nightmare,” Krishnappa added. Most of the residents point to the approximately 10 poultry farms in the region, especially a large one near Endasagu Janata Colony, as the likely source of the infestation. They allege that poor maintenance, including improper disposal of organic waste and neglected sanitation, has created ideal breeding grounds for houseflies.

Health Department Responds with Inspections

On Monday, a team of officials, including Kedambadi Gram Panchayat Development Officer Ajit J.K., Ariyadka Gram Panchayat Development Officer Sunil H.T., Tingaladi Primary Health Centre’s PHCO Vidya, ASHA worker Rekha, Ariyadka’s PHCO Navya, ASHA worker Leelavati, and Taluk Health Inspector Yachharesh Hadli, visited the affected areas. They conducted thorough inspections of homes and poultry farms in Endasagu Janata Colony, Majjardak, and Golitila to identify the source of the housefly problem. The team instructed farm owners to improve sanitation practices, such as proper waste disposal and regular cleaning, to prevent further fly breeding.

Dr. Deepak Rai, the Taluk Health Officer, assured residents that the issue is being prioritized. “We’ve received complaints about the housefly infestation in Endasagu Janata Colony, Majjardak, and Golitila. Our inspections suggest poultry farms or other sources may be contributing. We’re taking swift action. Proposed measures include enforcing stricter sanitation standards at farms, removing organic waste, and using targeted insecticides to control the fly population.” he said.

Wider Impact Across Nearby Villages; Long-Term Solutions Needed

The housefly problem goes beyond Endasagu Janata Colony, Majjardak, and Golitila. Nearby areas like Parpunja, Urva, Ujirodi, and Alambadi, under the Olmogr Gram Panchayat, face similar issues. “The flies are relentless, and the stench is unbearable,” a Ujirodi resident said. Recent monsoon rains and warm, humid weather have likely made things worse. These conditions create damp, organic-rich spots that are perfect for housefly breeding. A report from Deccan Herald mentioned that poor waste management in rural Karnataka often leads to housefly infestations, which can endanger public health. As the health department continues its inspections and starts control measures, residents hope for a quick solution. They are also pushing for long-term fixes, like stricter rules for poultry farms and better waste management, to avoid future outbreaks. With the risk of foodborne illnesses high, the communities of Endasagu Janata Colony, Majjardak, Golitila, and nearby areas remain worried, waiting for effective action to restore normalcy.

Keywords: housefly infestation, Endasagu Janata Colony, Majjardak, Golitila, Ariyadka, Kedambadi, Puttur taluk, Karnataka, health dept response, food contamination, poultry farms, housefly breeding, cooking utensils, housefly control, public health, foodborne illnesses