Thane: The Konkan divisional agriculture department has urged residents from Thane, Mumbai, and Navi Mumbai to verify the credentials of pest control agencies before hiring them. They warned that unlicensed operators offering services at cheap rates could pose serious health risks and potentially cause irreparable damage to properties.The issue of illegal operators working in the region was raised during a workshop of chemical and pesticide dealers from Thane and Mumbai, held in Thane recently. Following this, an appeal has been issued by the divisional agriculture department to residents to stay alert and report illegal services to the administration.“The demand for pest control is usually more ahead of the monsoon. Presently, there are just 414 licensed agencies in Mumbai, 257 in Thane, and 135 in Raigad, which is much less compared to the demand in the region, leaving scope for many unlicensed operatives to function,” said Balaji Tate, divisional superintendent of agriculture, Thane.“Of late, we received reports of unauthorized individuals conducting pest control in homes and small businesses without proper training or licenses. These operators lack formal training and operate from hidden locations, relying on word-of-mouth publicity and offering cheaper services,” said Tate. “Such operators often cut corners, use dangerous substances, and can potentially even harm lives and damage property.“Officials recommend residents must always check the licence issued to pest control agencies before hiring them. “Licensed firms and operators hold a degree in chemistry or agriculture, complete a 15-day certified course from institutes in Hyderabad or Mysore, and start operating after paying an annual licence fee of Rs 7,500, which is renewable. These operators also possess chemical purchase certificates,” explained officials. Offenders will face action under the Pesticides Act of 1968 and 1971, Tate said.
