India, April 17 -- The rapid return of water hyacinth in the Mula-Mutha River, barely weeks after clean-up drives, has renewed concerns over the lack of a long-term solution. Residents from the Bund Garden area say the unchecked spread of the invasive weed has led to a surge in mosquitoes, foul odour and insect infestation.

"After 6 pm, the mosquito problem becomes unbearable. We have to burn coils constantly, but even that doesn't help," said Mehboobi Sayyed, who runs a roadside kiosk in the area. "There is also a strong stench from the river, along with different kinds of insects," she added.

Another resident, Sopan Kamble, said, "The situation worsens during the monsoon, when stagnant patches increase, and the hyacinth spreads faster...