TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啟明) on Monday addressed growing public concern over a rat infestation in Taipei, following the report of a second hantavirus case in the area.
Speaking at the legislature on Monday, Peng addressed concerns about Taipei’s use of rat poison. Some worry the poison may have been placed in public parks without adequate warning, posing risks to pets, children, and wildlife such as birds of prey, per Newtalk.
In a Sunday statement, the city government said poison had been deployed in locations such as warehouse corners, storage areas, wall crevices, and along rat pathways or burrows. Officials emphasized that the placement and methods comply with central government guidelines.
Peng acknowledged that rat poison is a legal and essential tool for pest control, but said its use must follow strict regulations. He noted that poison should be placed in boxes to prevent accidental contact. If such precautions were not taken, he said, the placement was not carried out by the central or municipal government.
The minister urged the city to disclose the locations of rat poison placements to improve public transparency. He also called on Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) to coordinate interdepartmental efforts to tackle the issue.
Recent social media posts have highlighted an apparent rise in rat sightings in markets and around MRT stations. However, city officials have denied an increase, noting that reports filed through the 1999 citizen hotline have declined.
Peng said he has seen rats in public parks and understands the stress such infestations can cause for families. He recalled experiencing a similar issue in his former home, which required installing detectors and traps to resolve, per Newtalk.
He added that rats can easily spread between homes, restaurants, and night markets, making coordinated action across city departments essential. Peng reiterated his call for greater transparency and urged Chiang to lead regular interdepartmental meetings and to update the public, emphasizing the need for a cautious and thorough response.
