Hyderabad, Oct. 24 -- In Tolichowki, the windows shut at dusk. By the time the evening prayer is over, most families have drawn their mosquito nets, lit the coils and put the electric bats on charge. Residents say the routine has not changed in years.

Across almost every locality surveyed by Siasat.com - from Shah Ali Banda, Falaknuma and Fateh Darwaza in the Old City to Golconda, Mallepally, New Malakpet, Red Hills and Rajendranagar - residents reported a sharp rise in mosquitoes as evening turns to night. Mosquitoes are bearable during the day, people say. After sunset, they arrive in swarms.

Families also spoke of dengue scares and the mounting cost of repellents that wear off within hours.

Ayesha Simran, who lives in Tolichowki, sa...