We are quite alarmed to learn how poor waste management is creating ideal conditions for disease-carrying rats in Dhaka. According to a report by Bonik Barta, rats are increasingly visible in the capital in broad daylight in wet markets, residential areas, restaurants, drains, and even healthcare facilities—a clear sign that the city’s environment has become highly favourable for their growth. Experts have linked this surge directly to poor waste management, including piles of uncollected garbage, open dumping sites, clogged drains, and improper waste segregation, as well as unplanned urbanisation.
City residents are also reporting a growing presence of rodents inside their homes, while major public institutions, including hospitals, are struggling to control infestations. Public health experts warn that rats can spread harmful pathogens through their urine, droppings, fur, and contact with food and water. While direct transmission of some diseases may be relatively uncommon in Bangladesh, rats can contaminate their surroundings and help spread infections. They are known to carry diseases such as hantavirus and leptospirosis, and can also contribute indirectly to the spread of other illnesses.
In a densely populated city like Dhaka, where millions of people live in close proximity and sanitation standards remain inadequate, these risks become even greater. Zoologists have also warned that a growing rat population can disrupt the urban ecosystem by attracting predators such as snakes into residential areas. At the same time, the conditions that allow rats to thrive also encourage the spread of mosquitoes, flies, and other disease-carrying pests. This is a matter of serious concern.
Dhaka continues to rely on an outdated waste management system in which organic waste, plastics, hazardous materials, and household waste are often mixed and dumped with little processing. Experts have long stressed the need for separating waste at the source, followed by proper collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal. Yet, their advice has gone mostly unheeded.
The two city corporations in the capital must urgently adopt a comprehensive, science-based waste management strategy supported by adequate resources, clear timelines, and strict monitoring. Waste segregation at source should be a priority, while illegal dumping and the accumulation of garbage in public spaces must be tackled through stronger enforcement and improved services. Citizens also have a role to play by disposing of waste responsibly and cooperating with waste separation efforts. However, public participation can only succeed if the authorities provide the necessary infrastructure and ensure regular and efficient waste collection. The growing rat infestation can only be addressed through proper waste management and a long-term commitment to keeping the city clean.
