Flood alleviation projects on track: PUB

By Genevieve Woo, Channel NewsAsia
02 November 2007

SINGAPORE: The PUB has sent out flood advisories to about 600 residents and shop owners located in low lying areas.

But it is confident that flash floods in these areas will be alleviated when the Marina Barrage starts operation by next year.

PUB says the barrage is designed to handle both high tides and heavy rainfall.

It does this by maintaining the water level in the future Marina reservoir through a series of crest gates and huge pumps.

According to PUB, there are now 130 hectares of flood prone areas but this will be reduced to less than 100 hectares when the Marina Barrage and other drainage improvement projects are completed.

In time, low-lying areas such as Boat Quay, Chinatown, Jalan Besar and Geylang, can expect to be relieved of flash floods when it rains.

Other flood alleviation projects are on-going at Cuscaden Road, Olive and Joan Road and Commonwealth Avenue.

PUB says the onset of the rainy season is likely later this month, and is expected to last till late January 2008.

Should you come across floods or wish to check the weather forecast, call PUB-One at 1800-284 6600, or the NEA at 6542 7788.

Alternatively, you can get weather information on NEA's website at www.nea.gov.sg.

- CNA/yb