Andhra Pradesh is set to roll out a pilot project titled Smart Mosquito Surveillance System (SMoSS), an AI-driven initiative to monitor mosquito density, identify species, and enable timely and targeted spraying. This innovative programme aims to replace traditional, manual methods of mosquito control that officials have described as largely ineffective.
AI Sensors and Drones to Replace Manual Spraying
As reported by The Print, the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD) Department will implement the project using Artificial Intelligence-powered sensors and drones. These tools will identify mosquito species, gender, and density, and generate automatic alerts for civic teams to conduct targeted insecticide spraying. By doing so, the system eliminates guesswork and improves efficiency in vector control efforts.
Widespread Implementation Across Six Cities
The pilot will be launched in 66 locations across six municipal corporations:
- Vijayawada – 28 locations
- Visakhapatnam – 16 locations
- Nellore – 7 locations
- Rajamahendravaram – 5 locations
- Kakinada – 4 locations
- Kurnool – 6 locations
IoT Sensors and Real-Time Monitoring
Internet of Things (IoT) sensors will track real-time data on mosquito density and weather parameters such as humidity and temperature, reducing reliance on outdated “blind spraying” techniques. The use of spraying drones will cut down on time, chemical usage, and operational costs.
Live Dashboard and Performance-Based Monitoring
A centralised dashboard will display live data to track field operations and ensure prompt response during mosquito-borne disease outbreaks. According to Principal Secretary S. Suresh Kumar and Director P. Sampath Kumar, specialised agencies will carry out these operations, with payments linked to performance metrics.
Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response
To strengthen disease response, hospitals will submit daily reports on dengue, malaria, and chikungunya cases. These updates will help identify and target high-risk areas. Additionally, the government will intensify fogging and larvicidal measures based on emerging hotspots.
Complaint Tracking Through Mobile Apps
Citizens can register mosquito-related complaints via the Vector Control and Puramitra apps, ensuring community participation and improved accountability in the new system.
Paving the Way for Smart Public Health Interventions
With the launch of SMoSS, Andhra Pradesh is taking a data-driven, technology-first approach to vector control—one that could become a model for other states aiming to modernise public health interventions against mosquito-borne diseases.