Rat attack: new Hong Kong task force launches campaign to ‘beautify’ the city, taking aim at rodent infestation and more than 600 hygiene black spots
- The District Matters Co-ordination Task Force, the first such group formed by city leader, starts campaign on Sunday with 19 overnight anti-rodent teams
- Warner Cheuk, deputy chief secretary for administration, says previous governments could not maintain efforts because of unclear roles but the matter is now rectified
Hong Kong is launching a months-long campaign aiming to “beautify” the city, targeting hundreds of hygiene black spots, forming overnight anti-rodent teams and deploying artificial intelligence to identify dangerous signboards.
The scheme is part of the “Hong Kong New Cityscape” clean-up campaign and is in line with Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu’s election promises, which included setting key performance indicators to improve the city’s liveability.
Warner Cheuk Wing-hing, deputy chief secretary for administration, who leads the District Matters Co-ordination Task Force, on Friday said he hoped Hongkongers would see authorities’ determination and ability to boost hygiene in the city. He also pointed out that cross-department communication and roles on the matter were unclear in the past.
“I urge residents to be devoted to this campaign, which affects our living environment and Hong Kong’s international image. I hope they can show their affection for the city through their participation,” Cheuk said at the first press conference held by the body since it was set up in July.
The task force involves the Environmental and Ecology Bureau and departments of housing, food and environmental hygiene, home affairs and buildings.
Cheuk said that unlike previous administrations, the team would set out a clear division of labour and focus on issues including illegal refuse deposits, dripping air conditioners, rodent infestation and street obstructions.
The two-phase citywide campaign, with 19 overnight anti-rodent teams, will launch on Sunday.