Hong Kong’s rat problem can be tackled with accurate data and improvements in hygiene
Walking along buildings in Mong Kok, one often observes small rats running quickly. It is high time the government, especially the Food and Health Bureau, dealt with the rat problem seriously.
First, the Bureau should reform the Rodent Infestation Index so that it reflects the situation on the ground. According to the department’s website: “The [rodent infestation] surveys adopt a scientific and objective method in assessing the degree of rodent infestation in the selected areas”. However, the rodent infestation rate for Sai Kung remained at zero in 2013, despite hundreds of reports of rodents in the district that year. This indicates the index is not accurate enough and is probably misleading.
Second, public awareness of how to cope with a rat problem is low, resulting in the pests spreading. Some citizens feed stray animals food waste, which is bad for hygiene in the area. The government should do its best to persuade people not to feed strays any more. The situation will improve if the government uses a two-pronged approach: education and reform.
Ken Yu Wai-yip, Tsuen Wan