Rat scurries around on East-West Line MRT train

A rat was seen scurrying around in an MRT train on the East-West line.

A 36-second video uploaded on Reddit on May 23 showed the rat on the train that was heading towards Chinese Garden station.

Scurrying around

Passengers made way for the rat to move around.

Some of them lifted their legs to let it pass as it scurried around the cabin.

Two individuals wearing Starhub uniforms were seen trying to chase the rodent away.

The words on the back of their tops read, “We got you.”

As the train came to a stop, the duo managed to get the rodent out of the train just as a commuter was about to board.

The commuter stepped back.

Online reactions

In the comments section, commenters joked about the scene.

Some of them drew comparisons to rat sightings in the New York City subway.

Rats are reported on 42 per cent of subway trips in New York City, New York Post reported.

SMRT's response

In response to Mothership’s queries, SMRT said it is aware of the post.

The public transport operator explained that rats may occasionally enter trains through station platforms, track areas, undercarriage gaps, or gangways between train cars.

"As part of our regular maintenance regime, trains are thoroughly cleaned when they return to the depot at the end of passenger service every day. Our teams will also be stepping up pest control measures at our stations and depots," said Lam Sheau Kai, president of SMRT Trains.

Commuters were reminded not to eat or drink on trains and at the stations, as food remnants may attract rats and other pests.

"We thank commuters for your understanding," Lam said.