Protect our shores from erosion

Straits Times 2 Mar 09;

LAST December and the whole of January saw massive waves hitting our coastal areas. So forceful were these waves that debris and other flotsam could be seen lying on the high walkways, especially along Nicoll Drive from the direction of Telok Paku Road. Trails of destruction to the beach could also be seen all the way along the shores after SAF Ferry Terminal right up to Changi Ferry Terminal.

As a daily user of these parks, I have seen the devastation of this tranquil place. Concrete benches were overturned when the fine sand beneath gave way to the mighty waves. Also not spared were some once-majestic pine trees that went crashing onto the beach, while others with their roots exposed waited pitifully for the next round.

The National Parks Board (NParks) has acted swiftly by sending its contractors to the areas concerned. Overturned benches have been put back, albeit further inland, and the majestic fallen trees have been removed.

But something should be done as a long-term remedy. Melting ice caps are releasing millions of tonnes of water into the sea, causing rising sea levels. Why not place sandbags along affected coastlines and around the beautiful trees that dot the shores?

I also wish to bring to the attention of NParks another disturbing sight on the beaches. On weekends, hordes of beachgoers descend on these areas. They set up camps and party away with food and drinks. Many of these people openly smoke cigarettes. NParks has provided trash bins every few metres. However, they do not come with ashtrays. The smokers stub out their cigarettes on the sides of these bins, which leaves unsightly stains and may pose a fire hazard. If smoking is allowed in this area, NParks should provide ashtrays. Otherwise it should put up no-smoking signs.

Sukhdev S. Gill