Panvel: Shiv Sena Flags Rise In Dengue, Malaria And Swine Flu Cases, Seeks Urgent PMC Measures

Panvel, September 1, 2026: The Shiv Sena has voiced concerns over a potential surge in dengue, malaria and swine flu cases within the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) region. The party's Panvel Assembly constituency unit recently conducted a survey at primary health centres and private hospitals, prompting a meeting with PMC Health Department officials on August 30.

The group claims that erratic weather patterns might promote mosquito breeding and escalate the risk of vector-borne illnesses. They also noted deficiencies in malaria testing at certain PHCs and urged for enhanced testing capacity and disease surveillance. The delegation, consisting of Prathamesh Soman, Mangesh Ranawade, Pranav Karkhanis, and Jyoti Nadkarni, discussed the issues with PMC Deputy Commissioner Vaibhav Vidhate and officials from the Health Department, including Abhishek Paradkar, Dr Usha Rathod, Dr Akash Thasale, Anil Kokare and Sanjay Jadhav.

Concerns were raised about the reported swine flu outbreak in the PMC area, with the Shiv Sena requesting information on testing and preventative actions taken by the civic body. PMC officials assured the delegation that malaria testing facilities would be expanded, fogging and insecticide spraying would increase, and additional manpower would be proposed for consideration.

They also pledged to introduce swine flu testing at all PMC PHCs post-haste. Shiv Sena has set a deadline of September 15 for the implementation of these measures, warning of an agitation if their requests are not addressed.