Mumbai: Doctors have raised concerns over malaria and dengue cases in Mumbai, with a significant share of hospital beds occupied by patients suffering from the mosquito-borne diseases.

Dr Deepak Namjoshi, founder and chairman of Criticare Group of Hospitals, said more than 20% of the 550 beds across the group's four hospitals were occupied by malaria and dengue patients.

Doctors have expressed concern over stagnant water, poor sanitation and construction activity, which can create conditions conducive to mosquito breeding. The effectiveness of fogging drives has also come under scrutiny, with questions raised over whether such measures are adequately addressing the sources of mosquito breeding.

However, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has reported a decline in vector-borne disease cases during the first half of October compared with September.

The civic body said its teams were responding to complaints about stagnant water and undertaking measures to control mosquito breeding. Executive Health Officer Dr Santosh Gaikwad said officials were addressing reported cases and training construction workers to improve awareness and prevention practices at work sites.

The concerns highlight the need for sustained preventive action alongside medical treatment. Construction sites, waterlogged areas and poorly maintained premises require regular inspections to identify and eliminate potential breeding grounds.

Doctors have stressed the importance of public awareness and timely medical attention for people experiencing symptoms associated with malaria or dengue. Civic authorities, meanwhile, face the challenge of ensuring that mosquito-control measures are consistently implemented across the city.