Flood-prone areas in the Republic have been reduced from 3,200 hectares in the 1970s, to 32 hectares today. However, with the unpredictable weather, PUB will continue its efforts to minimise the risk of flooding, says Dr Amy Khor.
Liyana Othman Channel NewsAsia 14 Mar 16;
SINGAPORE: Since the start of 2014, measures have been taken to ensure the Republic can cope with storms of higher intensity, said Senior Minister of State for Environment and Water Resources Amy Khor in Parliament on Monday (Mar 14).
Dr Khor said measures were taken in January 2014 to ensure that Singapore's drainage system could cope with storms of higher intensity. In addition, there are minimum platform level requirements for all developments, particularly for critical ones like underground MRT stations. This prevents flood water from entering these facilities and disrupting essential services.
"Beyond structural enhancements, PUB has instituted measures to help the public, including essential service providers, better prepare for flash floods,” she said.
“PUB has a network of about 200 water level sensors and 170 CCTVs installed to remotely monitor drain and flood conditions. This information is freely available on PUB’s website, social media platforms and mobile apps."
The national water agency is also maintaining a drainage improvement programme, which enhances the capacities of drains and canals. Since August 2011, PUB has implemented a free SMS alert system to provide the public with early warnings of heavy rain and rising water levels in canals.
Flood-prone areas in the Republic have been reduced from 3,200 hectares in the 1970s, to 32 hectares today, she added.
However, with the unpredictable weather brought about by climate change, PUB will continue its efforts to minimise the risk of flooding, Dr Khor said.
- CNA/ek
