Toronto has outlined a strategy to address the ‘rat storm’ that is overtaking

Toronto has outlined a strategy to address the 'rat storm' that is overtaking the city. The situation has spiraled out of control due to this rat infestation, exacerbated by mild weather,

Disturbed by the presence of rodents, Toronto has detailed its rat response strategy as the city takes measures to manage the vermin infestation. Afua Baah reports.

Rats are invading numerous neighborhoods in Toronto, and the ongoing construction throughout the city is significantly contributing to the emergence of these rodents from underground.

Coun. Alejandra Bravo intends to present Toronto's rat response strategy to the Economic and Community Development Committee next week, describing it as a proactive approach that addresses the root of the issue, which she claims has resulted in the "perfect rat storm."

"Construction, in particular, should not be causing an influx of rats in our neighborhoods," Bravo stated, emphasizing that under the proposed plan, construction projects will be mandated to implement a rat management strategy prior to commencing work.

"Before you dig, you trap."

Additional measures include establishing a rat response coordination team, forming a rat response enforcement table, and conducting targeted inspection blitzes in areas with a higher incidence of reported rodent activity.

Last year, pest control firm Orkin designated Toronto as the "rattiest" city in Canada for the third consecutive year. Etobicoke, Brampton, Mississauga, and Scarborough also ranked among the top 25 Canadian cities facing rodent challenges.

Dr. Alice Sinia, the resident entomologist at Orkin Canada, asserts that to effectively address the problem, there must be comprehensive public education, strict enforcement of rat management plans at construction sites, and potentially, taxpayer-funded pest control initiatives for households that cannot afford such services.

CityNews