Serangoon Central resident complains of rat and cockroach infestation, rubbish strewn everywhere
A Serangoon Central resident claimed that the void deck of her HDB block has been dirty and cluttered for almost a year since she moved in, adding that cockroaches and rats regularly appear at night.
Madam Guo (transliterated), 48, who lives at Block 421 Serangoon Central, told Shin Min Daily News that she moved into her fourth-floor unit in end-October 2024, but soon noticed signs of poor hygiene.
"I came during the day before moving in to inspect the area and didn't see any issues. After moving in, I didn't notice any rats at first. But from around March or April this year, rats and cockroaches began appearing downstairs."
She added that the pests have been spotted inside her flat as well, prompting her to seal the rubbish chute. "Sometimes the bins on the ground floor are full. On the way from the block to Serangoon MRT Station, there's often litter in the drains and on the ground, and cockroaches appear from time to time."
Residents say situation has improved
While the area appeared clean when Shin Min reporters visited the neighbourhood, some residents said it was not unusual to see rubbish strewn around the estate.
Madam Guo said she reported the matter to the town council, and was informed that it had stepped up cleaning efforts.
A resident who declined to be named noted: "Previously, when rubbish was thrown everywhere, people complained that the bins were too small. Now that larger bins have been installed, the situation is still the same. Ultimately, it comes down to personal responsibility and civic-mindedness."
He added that although the rat problem used to be severe, the situation has since improved slightly. The fifth-floor resident has also sealed his rubbish chute to prevent cockroaches from entering his home.
Town council increases cleaning frequency
In response to queries from Shin Min, a Marine Parade–Braddell Heights Town Council spokesperson said it has taken measures to address the situation, such as conducting rodent treatments twice a week and weekly chemical treatments for cockroaches.
The spokesperson added the frequency of rubbish clearance frequencies has increased while bins with larger openings have been deployed, on top of greater engagement with residents to remind them about proper waste disposal.
