New York City is stepping up its fight against rats, a long-time problem on its streets and in its subways.
Officials are now using high-tech mapping tools, sealed trash containers, and public education to cut down the rodent population. The goal is to make 2025 the year when rat numbers finally start to drop.
The city’s Department of Health says the key is removing the rats’ food supply. Rats need only about 28 grams of food a day, but they can have up to 12 babies at a time and produce several litters in less than a year. With so much trash and food waste around the city is a paradise for rodents.
In the Harlem neighbourhood, workers are testing new tools and traps, while inspectors use a special phone app to track rat activity. They visit homes and businesses to encourage better cleaning and trash storage. The city also trains residents and building managers on how to keep rats away.
The “trash revolution” begun in 2022 replaced open garbage bags with sealed containers. This has already helped in some areas, with one neighbourhood seeing far fewer rats than before. Harlem resident Karen Del Aguila said she no longer has to dodge rats while walking past trash piles.
Officials report that in 2024, rat complaints fell by 25 percent compared to the year before. However, so far only Chinatown has fully brought the rat population under control.
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