Hawkers at Maxwell Food Centre are concerned about a possible rodent infestation, as a family of mice have been spotted scurrying around the ceiling. A mouse also fell onto the tables on separate occasions.
“I am definitely worried. As an F&B operator, we are particular about hygiene as it is extremely important,” said a stall vendor to Chinese newspaper Shin Min Daily News.
According to a representative for Maxwell Food Centre, the mice appeared and started causing problems after construction work began in the surrounding area.
The family of mice is said to have been nesting on the ceiling beam. Stall vendors expressed concern that a rodent infestation could occur as the rodents reproduce quickly.
Typically nocturnal, three to four mice would scurry around at night and scavenge for food that has not been cleared in the area.
The critters would also gnaw through electrical wires, causing disruptions to the stall operators.
On two occasions, the mice were spotted in broad daylight after a small mouse fell from the ceiling, landing on a diner’s table.
During the first incident in September 2021, the mouse was removed by a cleaner with a box. However, in the following incident a few months ago, the mouse was trampled to death by visitors.
The hawker centre representative added that the National Environment Agency (NEA) had been alerted to the matter.
Pest control services visit the food centre monthly, and inspections are conducted regularly, the representative added.
This is not the first time a possible rodent infestation was highlighted on social media, sparking concern among nearby residents.
On separate occasions, rats were spotted at Pasir Ris & Telok Blangah Crescent.
“Rats are a concern because their urine and droppings, as well as the fleas on their bodies, may transmit diseases. Besides contaminating food, they also cause damage to infrastructure by gnawing,” said NEA in a statement.
“NEA takes a serious view of rodent infestation. NEA will not hesitate to enforce strictly against premises owners for lapses in rodent management,” said Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu in an oral Parliamentary reply on March 5, 2022./TISG