Pakistan to deploy hunter cats to tackle rat problem in parliament; allocates budget

Pakistani lawmakers are in a tight spot. However, it has nothing to do with political instability, soaring inflation, heightened ethnic tensions, rising terrorism or economic disasterbut rats. You may question your eyes after reading it but make no mistake, the Pakistani Parliament has allocated a budget of PKR 1.2 million ($4,300) to battle the rat menace with a unique strategy.

According to Pakistan-based The Express Tribune, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) will employ “special hunter cats” to do the job. The money will also go towards installing netted barriers.

CDA is expected to rope in private firms to carry out pest control on parliament premises, including in the Senate and National Assembly secretariats.

According to media reports, the rat population in the parliament building drastically increased because of infested ceilings.

Lack of hygiene has been a major issue in Pakistan's parliament for years.

Back in 2022, the Islamabad administration had ordered the sealing of two cafeterias of Parliament House after cockroaches were found in the food.

Local media reported that Pakistani lawmakers had already stopped eating at the outlets due to poor hygiene. After lawmakers complained, local district officials raided the eateries, resulting in the action against them.

In 2019, lawmakers also raised concerns about the quality of meat served.

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Earlier in 2014, a cockroach was found inside a ketchup bottle in the cafeteria of the House.

However lacklustre attitude may be shown by Pakistani lawmakers in easing the hardships of the general public, they are hopeful of addressing the rodent menace as a top priority which is directly putting their well-being in danger inside the parliament house.

(With inputs from agencies)