Diners and Hawkers Alike Alarmed by Potential Infestation Amid Ongoing Construction
Hawkers at Maxwell Food Centre are raising alarms over a potential rodent infestation after multiple sightings of a family of mice scurrying across the ceiling. In an unsettling incident, a mouse even fell onto a diner’s table, heightening concerns about hygiene in the popular food hub.
“I am definitely worried. As an F&B operator, we prioritize hygiene, which is extremely important,” remarked one stall vendor in an interview with Chinese newspaper Shin Min Daily News.
According to a representative from Maxwell Food Centre, the rodent sightings began following construction work in the surrounding area, which has reportedly disturbed the mice nesting in the ceiling beams. Vendors fear that if left unaddressed, a rodent infestation could quickly escalate due to the rapid reproduction rates of mice.
Typically nocturnal, three to four mice have been observed scurrying around at night, scavenging for any food left unattended. They pose additional risks by gnawing through electrical wires, causing disruptions for stall operators.
In broad daylight, the issue became even more apparent when a small mouse fell from the ceiling onto a diner’s table on two separate occasions. In September 2021, a cleaner managed to remove the mouse using a box, but in a subsequent incident a few months later, it was accidentally trampled by patrons.
The hawker centre representative confirmed that the National Environment Agency (NEA) has been informed of the situation. Pest control services are scheduled to visit the food centre monthly, with regular inspections also taking place.
This isn’t the first instance of rodent concerns being raised on social media, with similar reports emerging from areas such as Pasir Ris and Telok Blangah Crescent.
“Rats are a significant concern as their urine and droppings, along with fleas on their bodies, can transmit diseases. They contaminate food and damage infrastructure by gnawing,” stated the NEA.
“NEA takes rodent infestations seriously and will not hesitate to enforce strict measures against premises owners for any lapses in rodent management,” emphasized Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu in an oral parliamentary reply on March 5, 2022.
