Straits Times Forum 30 Mar 09;
LAST year, HDB decided to build a new residential estate at the corner of Woodlands Road and Senja Way. The move will mean cutting an excessive number of trees. These trees are over 30 years old. My question is, why take so much effort to destroy these trees, while spending million of dollars to create new parks in remote locations?
There is plenty of vacant ground to build new flats in Singapore, including one beside these trees. HDB need not chop down these trees. The space is more than enough for the new estate.
The landscape is on the slope. Therefore any rain water drains away and the area is almost mosquito-less. It is also lively because there are birds and cute animals like squirrels. Every morning, we enjoy the pleasant fresh air. Compared to my previous place in Bukit Merah, Senja Road is much cooler, especially in the hot season.
I do not understand why HDB chooses to 'un-green' our environment, instead of putting in more effort to preserve it. Singapore is small, and it is our duty to preserve nature for future generations.
Harris Ho
