Wong Tuan Wah Director (Conservation), National Parks Board
Today Online 3 Aug 12;
We thank Mr Phang Kok Chiew for his feedback in "Risky barriers at nature reserve" (July 28). The trail he referred to, at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, has been closed permanently since December 2007 because it is unsafe.
Part of the trail has become unstable due to slope failure. The fence or barrier, with warning signs, was erected to warn visitors not to enter the area.
We urge visitors to observe personal safety and not to climb over the barrier.
There are more than 10 other trails in the Reserve that the public can use. These are demarcated clearly on map boards in the Reserve, for visitors' convenience.
For further feedback, members of the public are welcome to contact us at 1800-471-7800 or NParks_Public_Affairs@NParks.gov.sg .
Risky barriers at nature reserve
Phang Kok Chiew Today Online 27 Jul 12;
I have recently noticed that iron bars with pointed ends are being erected along some Bukit Timah Nature Reserve trails, presumably for safety reasons. But these barriers are impractical, wasteful and, more importantly, risky.
The trails offer an interesting jungle experience. The more adventurous, like myself, would not be deterred by the barriers and, at our own risk, would go around them or squeeze through the gaps. This is already happening.
When the slopes are slippery, accidents could happen. But the real danger is if visitors were to climb over the bars. One slip on the sharp ends and it could be serious. Such an act may be foolish, but it may happen.
A practical approach is to clear fallen tree trunks across the paths and put up simple barriers with warning signs to indicate possible danger spots, such as where soil may give way. Appropriate advice could also be posted at the nature reserve's entrance.
Falling trees, landslides or cave-ins can occur anywhere in a forest, in stormy or sunny weather, and visitors need to stay alert at all times. Could the National Parks Board look into the concerns and advise if they are valid?
