Over 140 Face Legal Action as Sri Lanka Cracks Down on Dengue Breeding Grounds
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – July 1, 2025 – In a firm response to a persistent public health threat, Sri Lankan authorities have initiated legal proceedings against over 140 individuals found to be maintaining environments conducive to mosquito breeding. This decisive action comes swiftly on the heels of the launch of the National Mosquito Control Week, a nationwide effort to curb the alarming rise in dengue cases across the island.
The National Mosquito Control Unit (NDCU) reported that on the very first day of the campaign, Monday, June 30th, a staggering 22,318 locations were inspected. Of these, a concerning 4,481, or approximately 20%, were identified as active dengue mosquito breeding grounds. This equates to roughly one in every five inspected sites posing a direct threat to public health.
As a result of these inspections, 601 “red notices” – warnings to rectify the issue – were issued. More significantly, 143 legal cases were filed immediately against those responsible for negligence in maintaining their premises. The Ratnapura District has been identified as a particularly high-risk area, recording the highest rate of dengue mosquito breeding.
Sri Lanka has been battling a significant surge in dengue cases, particularly following recent bouts of heavy rainfall. The NDCU reports over 28,000 dengue cases recorded since the beginning of 2025, with 16 confirmed deaths linked to the disease. The Western Province continues to bear the brunt of the epidemic.
The week-long National Mosquito Control Week, which runs until July 5th, involves a concerted effort by the Ministry of Health, supported by military personnel, police officers, civil security personnel, and public health inspectors. Over 1,000 specialized teams have been mobilized across 16 high-risk districts to carry out inspections, cleaning operations, and public awareness initiatives.
Health officials are emphasizing that public participation is paramount to the success of this campaign. Dr. Prasheela Samaraweera, Media Spokesperson of the National Dengue Control Unit, stressed the importance of household vigilance. Residents are urged to diligently eliminate breeding grounds by clearing gutters, securely covering water storage containers, and properly disposing of items that can collect rainwater, even small puddles.
The intensified national effort aims not only to curb the current outbreak but also to establish a foundation for sustained mosquito control throughout the year. The government is also calling on schools, workplaces, and local councils to actively support the campaign through coordinated clean-up activities and awareness programmes..The legal actions serve as a stern warning that individual responsibility is crucial in this collective fight against dengue.
