Straits Times Forum 9 Feb 09;
I SUGGEST the National Environment Agency (NEA) adopts more preventive measures in its control of public health pests. Recent problems with rats and persistent problems with birds are bound to recur, unless more preventive measures are in place. Preventive action should take centre stage, because Singapore has a conducive environment for pests to take root and proliferate.
First, the high-density sewerage system gives rats plenty of space to hide away unnoticed during the day. Second, there are plenty of trees and 'perch-friendly' building configurations where birds can roost. Finally, there is food almost everywhere to keep these vectors well fed.
Aside from the public health concern, the sight of rats in public places and buildings, particularly hawker centres and markets, soiled by bird droppings can seriously harm the image of Singapore as a clean city.
I suggest NEA considers these preventive measures:
- Require that food refuse in all eateries be removed at night to deprive nocturnal pests like rats;
- Have sweepers on night shift in public eating places to prevent litter from accumulating; and
- 'Bird-proof' hawker centres and markets for long-term bird control. Special attention should be paid to food storage or preparation areas. Bird droppings can transmit diseases.
Jolly Wee
