A concern regarding a possible rodent infestation was posted on social media on Friday morning (May 27), the witness noting that the situation was “getting worse.”
Facebook page Complaint Singapore member Dustin Lee shared a video and photo of an exposed trash bag beside the trash bin with at least two rats rummaging for leftovers.
“Blk 142 Pasir Ris at 11. Rodent infestation is getting worst,” said the concerned individual.
Rats were also caught on camera scurrying around a block at Telok Blangah Crescent on May 19, posing a health and safety risk for nearby residents.
The witness to the scene noted that a report to the National Environment Agency (NEA) had been made, and “action was taken.”
“Rodent infestation behind Blk 10 Telok Blangah Crescent,” wrote Complaint Singapore member Ming Lang, attaching footage of at least two rats in the area.
One of the rats was near an open rubbish bin and trash bags beside it.
Beside the rubbish bin was gas tank compartments that doubled as a shelter for more rats.
“Reported to NEA before, claimed that action was taken,” noted Ming Lang.
Facebook user Zaiton Jaffar commented on the post, witnessing a similar sight at Choa Chu Kang. “The rats were running and chasing each other. So I gave up purchasing the flat!” the netizen added.
The Independent Singapore has reached out to NEA for a statement.
Over the years, rats have become a major problem for residents and businesses in Singapore, notes deBugged, a pest control blogsite.
These rodents thrive in areas with readily available food, water, and shelter.
“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.
Authorities have been taking aggressive actions in managing rat infestations by removing food sources and areas of harbourage. Businesses that fail to keep their premises pest-free are also penalised.
In 2014, NEA received about 4,000 reports on rodent sightings, 1,000 more than the previous year, said Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu in an oral Parliamentary reply on March 5, 2022.
“NEA takes a serious view of rodent infestation. NEA will not hesitate to enforce strictly against premises owners for lapses in rodent management,” said Ms Fu.
While NEA will be working together with town councils and premises owners to address the issue of rodent infestation, the key strategy to managing rodent infestation is to remove food sources and areas of harbourage, she added./TISG