Madurai Govt Hospital plans structural measures to address rat menace
Tamil Nadu: A persistent rat infestation at the Government Rajaji Hospital (GRH) in Madurai has raised concerns among patients, attendants and healthcare workers, with hospital authorities acknowledging that conventional pest-control measures have failed to solve the problem. The hospital is now planning structural interventions to tackle the recurring rodent menace.
According to a patient's relative, rats have been spotted in multiple areas of the campus, including the open space behind the JICA Block, the Convict Ward, the two-wheeler parking area near the Dean's office and the waiting hall close to the Cardiothoracic Ward. Patients and their attendants have reportedly expressed concern over the continued presence of rodents in these locations.
The infestation has also reportedly affected hospital infrastructure. Hospital sources said rats recently damaged the wiring of an air-conditioner in the old main building near the Dean's office, resulting in an electric shock to a doctor. The doctor reportedly escaped without serious injuries. In another instance, burrows dug beneath the Toxicology Ward allegedly caused floor tiles to cave in, necessitating repair work.
Hospital authorities said several measures have already been taken to control the infestation, including excavating affected areas, clearing rat burrows, installing traps and placing glass pieces beneath the soil in vulnerable locations. However, these efforts have not produced the desired results.
Officials believe that improper disposal of leftover food by patients' attendants has contributed to the infestation by attracting rodents to the hospital premises.
Hospital authorities have ruled out fumigation as a long-term solution, as rats dying inside underground passages could create hygiene issues and foul odour.
