A resident living in Circuit Road has been sleeping along the corridor every night due to the presence of clutter. He mentioned that he ‘inherited’ these items from his deceased parents.

Uncle’s Clutter Sparks Concern in Circuit Road Community

In a quiet corner of Circuit Road, an elderly uncle living in a three-room HDB flat is facing mounting criticism from his neighbours due to the mess outside his home. The situation has caught the attention of residents, particularly Mr. Xu, who expressed his worries about the clutter blocking the corridor.

A Growing Problem

Mr. Xu shared that the hoarding issue escalated after the uncle’s father passed away in 1995. Now, the uncle has taken to sleeping in the corridor, surrounded by piles of belongings. With his sister currently in the hospital, Mr. Xu is eager for the uncle to clear the area before her return.

During a visit by Shin Min, the investigator discovered a chaotic scene. Cardboard boxes, drink cans, and even bread were stacked outside the uncle’s unit, leaving just a narrow passage of about 55cm for neighbours to navigate. The uncle’s flat was secured with a simple chain, filled to the brim with various items.

Impact on Neighbours

Other residents, including Mr. Zheng, who has lived in the block for 50 years, voiced their frustrations. He highlighted that the cramped walkway poses challenges for elderly residents and could even be a fire hazard. Mr. Huang, another long-time resident, remarked that the mess has been a constant presence, often attracting pests and creating unpleasant odours.

The Uncle’s Perspective

On the day of the reporter’s visit, the uncle was found sitting on the corridor floor, reading the newspaper with his cat by his side. He explained that the items outside have accumulated over the years, with some still being useful. He mentioned plans to discard some belongings, stating that the bread was meant for his pets.

In 2017, the uncle had a fallout with his two younger brothers over the clutter. They attempted to clean the flat, leading to tensions within the family. Their mother, unable to part with her late husband’s possessions, contributed to the growing pile of items over the years. After her passing, the uncle admitted he struggled to let go of her belongings.

Community and Council Response

The Marine Parade Town Council is now aware of the situation and has given the uncle a month to clear the clutter. However, he has requested additional time, citing ongoing lift upgrades that will only be completed by December 11. He insists he can manage the cleanup on his own, without help from volunteers or cleaners.

The Need for Action

This situation raises an important question: Should the government intervene to assist the uncle in clearing the clutter?

There are compelling reasons for action. The accumulation of items not only poses a safety hazard but could also lead to health risks, such as attracting pests that spread diseases.

It’s essential to approach this matter with empathy, recognizing that the uncle may need support to manage his living conditions. By providing assistance, we can help ensure the safety and well-being of the entire community.

For more information on community support services, visit Gov.sg.