Residents of Block 112, Aljunied Crescent have reported a serious rat infestation, with 20 to 30 rats spotted in the area, particularly during rainy days.
A reader alerted Shin Min Daily News about the problem, which prompted an investigation.
Reporters found several rat holes in grass patches directly in front of the block during their visit.
Mr. Chen, 59, told reporters he noticed many rats appearing over the past one to two weeks. He said the problem gets worse when it rains, with dozens of rats visible at once.
Ms. Lee, another resident, linked the infestation to nightly illegal gambling gatherings below the flats. She explained that these groups place a basket nearby for their garbage, including food waste and empty drink containers.
David, 49, reported that rats have started climbing stairs and moving along corridors at night. “We’re all worried about the rat problem, which has continued for over six months now,” he said.
Mr. Lee, 43, provided additional context, noting the rat problem wasn’t as bad initially but worsened as more people gathered to gamble in the area. “It’s not just the noise and rat problem,” he added, “there’s even a urine smell that permeates the area.”
Marine Parade Town Council told Shin Min Daily News they’ve arranged for pest control staff to inspect and implement rat extermination measures in the affected area.
A town council spokesperson said they check the situation weekly and take preventive measures including trapping and eliminating nearby rats.
The authorities also clean and maintain garbage bins throughout the estate to prevent them from becoming breeding grounds.
The town council works with pest control specialists to assess their measures’ effectiveness, adjust strategies as needed, and monitor the rat population.
A multi-agency team has been formed to eliminate food sources and potential breeding grounds for rats around the block.
Residents have been asked to help keep the environment clean to address the problem.
