Identification and eradication of mosquito breeding sites using wireless networking and electromechanical technologies

Abstract

Suppression of mosquito breeding is a mandatory first step to reduce the source of major mosquito-borne diseases like Malaria and Dengue fever. This paper deals with an innovative method for the identification of mosquito breeding sites (stagnant pools), using wireless networking technologies and removal of stagnant water through electromechanical pumping systems. The stagnant water areas are first identified and reported by public users using a web-based portal or using Short Message Service (SMS) through mobile phones. Based on the complaints stored in the database, a route via the stagnant sites is drawn on a map using a Geographic Information System (GIS). A vehicle carrying a Global Positioning system (GPS), on-board camera, and a pumping system with a tank for removing the stagnant water traverses the via points of stagnant pools. Finally, stagnant water is removed using a pumping system and stored in the onboard tank for emptying later. Results of the implementation of a proof-of-concept prototype system are reported, to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.