The Times of India reports that the move follows detection of a Japanese Encephalitis (JE) case in Pune recently, third in the last seven months.

The Culex type of mosquito, which feeds on animal blood especially pigs, is the main vector of the JE in Maharashtra and can transmit the disease to humans.

"The Punawale-based agency that also runs a slaughter house has been awarded the work contract to keep a check on roaming pigs in the city. The work order will be given to them in a day or two," Vaishali Jadhav, Assistant Medical Officer of Health (AMOH), PMC, said.

PMC's veterinary superintendent Prakash Wagh said there has been a cold response to the appeal to pig breeders to keep their animals in proper enclosures.

"The agency will keep the animals off the streets and pick up pigs if found roaming and dispose them off as per the norms of Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act," he said, adding that the agency will either get the animals slaughtered at its slaughterhouse or send them to Devnar slaughterhouse run by the Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation.

State surveillance officer Sanjay Awate said people should keep their surroundings clean.

"Larvicides must be used periodically in ponds with vegetation as they provide a conducive atmosphere for the vector to breed and propagate." he said.