A proposal to deploy portable electric mosquito traps in open public spaces has been met with caution by the Health Ministry, which has raised concerns over its efficacy.
In a formal response to municipal authorities, Health Ministry Under‑Secretary Dr Luluwa Showaiter said that approved scientific studies and established practices indicate these bug zappers have limited effectiveness as a primary method of mosquito control in open areas, despite growing interest in their use during peak mosquito seasons.
Her response came after the Southern Municipal Council unanimously endorsed a proposal to deploy the ultraviolet light devices in public squares, parks and residential neighbourhoods, including mounting them on patrol vehicles to widen coverage after rainfall.
Dr Showaiter stressed that Bahrain already operates mosquito control programmes grounded in ‘scientific principles and proven effective experiments and results’, adding that the ministry remains ‘fully ready to provide high-quality support and services to citizens and residents’.
“The Health Ministry affirms that it would continue implementing and monitoring approved mosquito control programmes,” she wrote, adding that the current strategy – including the use of larvicides in stagnant water, thermal fogging, and ultra-low-volume spraying – remains the cornerstone of the national response.
But Southern Municipal Council chairman Abdulla Abdullatif believes the traps deserve a fair trial before being ruled out.
“These traps represent a practical and modern solution to a recurring public concern,” he said. “They can be installed in key locations or mounted on vehicles to expand coverage, especially in areas prone to water accumulation after rainfall.”
He explained that the devices use ultraviolet light to attract mosquitoes and other insects, which are then eliminated through a high-voltage electric grid.
“I believe they are effective in eradicating large numbers of insects and, importantly, they are safe and non-toxic,” he added. “We are not asking to replace existing programmes. We are only seeking to add another tool.”
The proposal was studied in detail by the council’s services and public utilities committee before winning unanimous backing.
Committee chairman Ali Al Shaikh noted that similar devices are used in regional countries, including Qatar, and argued they could complement existing measures by operating year-round, particularly during peak breeding periods after rainfall.
Mr Abdullatif said the council’s position is simple: test first and judge later.
“We respect the ministry’s scientific expertise, but sometimes field trials tell a different story. Give it a try in selected areas before jumping to conclusions,” he said. “Residents complain every year about mosquitoes after rain. If there is even a small improvement, it is worth exploring.”
Councillors argue that the battery-operated, rechargeable traps offer flexibility, allowing them to be placed on rooftops, in parks or moved through neighbourhoods on vehicles – reaching spots that are harder to manage through conventional spraying.
For the Health Ministry the priority remains evidence-based control built around proven methods.
Councillors, however, expressed hope that the initiative will be implemented, particularly as seasonal conditions continue to create favourable environments for mosquito breeding.
For any reports or complaints regarding mosquito infestations, people can call the hotline 80008100 for further information.
Additionally, they can also be sent through the national suggestions and complaints system, Tawasul.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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