In response to a rat infestation that has been causing concern among tourists and residents alike, the city of Rome has initiated a comprehensive effort to combat the issue. The trigger for action was tourists sharing images of rats on social media, prompting swift measures to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors around the iconic Colosseum.
Leading the initiative, Sabrina Alfonsi, the head of garbage collection in the city, announced the commencement of a “special intervention” on Friday night. This operation, which extended into the early hours of Saturday, aimed to address the rat infestation and provide unobstructed access to the historically significant Colosseum, a vital hub of tourism in Italy.
The ongoing cleanup operation is expected to continue throughout the upcoming week. It encompasses a range of tasks, including the clearing of green spaces surrounding the Colosseum, addressing the rat nesting grounds found in drains, and deploying traps to control the rodent population.
Overflowing garbage dumpsters and bins infested with rats and seagulls have sparked the fury and concern of citizens of #Rome pic.twitter.com/U8L54HSFv0
— RT (@RT_com) July 21, 2019
Highlighting the severity of the situation, the municipal government of Rome disclosed that there are approximately 7 million rats within the city. This astonishing number translates to an average of 2.5 rats per resident, underscoring the scale of the challenge.
Sabrina Alfonsi attributed the surge in rat activity to a combination of factors. The influx of tourists during the summer season, combined with a concurrent heatwave, has created conditions conducive to rat proliferation. The increase in litter due to higher foot traffic has provided these rodents with an environment suitable for breeding and growth.
Notably, the city hall has released images showcasing cleanup personnel in action against the backdrop of the illuminated Colosseum. The images capture discarded plastic bottles, beverage cans, and other debris being collected, emphasizing the significance of maintaining a clean and visually appealing environment.
Rome has been grappling with a persistent waste management crisis for some time now. The sight of trash accumulating on streets next to overflowing garbage bins has become a common occurrence, posing challenges to the city’s efforts to uphold cleanliness and hygiene.
The Colosseum, a historic marvel built over two millennia ago, holds a rich legacy as the grandest amphitheatre of the Roman Empire. Throughout its storied history, the Colosseum has hosted gladiator combat, public executions, and captivating animal hunts, cementing its position as a symbol of ancient Rome’s grandeur.
As Rome’s authorities actively address the rat infestation near this iconic landmark, the city continues to navigate the delicate balance between preserving its historic treasures and ensuring a modern, clean urban environment for residents and visitors alike.
