Straits Times Forum 28 Dec 09;
PUB, the national water agency, thanks Mr George Wee ('Ease up - Review the need for licences for doing so many of the innocent things that make life fun') and Ms Frances Tan (''No U-turn syndrome' taking joy out of leisure') for their letters last Thursday on kayaking in reservoirs.
We are heartened that more Singaporeans are enthusiastic about kayaking at our reservoirs. We encourage Singaporeans to enjoy recreational activities at the reservoirs so they can have a closer relationship with water, and in turn come to appreciate and value it.
However, we take a serious view of the safety of the reservoir user, which is why we currently do not allow individuals to carry out water activities on their own.
To provide more recreational options at reservoirs, PUB has over the years worked with partners such as the Singapore Canoe Federation and the People's Association to open kayaking centres at Bedok Reservoir, MacRitchie Reservoir, Marina Reservoir, Jurong Lake and Lower Seletar Reservoir.
These operators ensure that members of the public are briefed on safety regulations and they do not venture outside the designated areas.
The operators also keep life vests and kayaks in good condition and track the number of kayaks out on the water so all individuals are accounted for.
With these precautions in place, members of the public, especially families with children, can enjoy paddling in the water with ease of mind.
We are currently reviewing the procedures and will take into consideration the feedback received. The public are welcome to give us their feedback at PUB's 24-hour call centre on 1800- 284-6600.
Tan Nguan Sen
Director, Catchment and Waterways
PUB, the national water agency
Ease up
Straits Times Forum 24 Dec 09;
'Review the need for licences for doing so many of the innocent things that make life fun.'
MR GEORGE WEE: 'I refer to Monday's report, 'Left high and dry by waterway rules'. If safety reasons are taken to extreme lengths, even swimming in public pools will need certification. The authorities should review the need for licences for doing so many of the innocent things that make life fun.'
