Forum Replies

Assessments will be made on drainage impact of Bukit Brown
16 Feb 2012, TODAY

We thank Mr Chong Ja Ian for his letter "What effect will the development of Bukit Brown have on flooding" (Feb 11).

Public agencies work closely to assess how new developments, such as infrastructure and housing, could affect surrounding areas.

In doing so, we are able to introduce mitigating measures where needed.

For the new road through Bukit Brown, relevant agencies such as the PUB and National Parks Board were consulted on the drainage requirements and its impact to the environment before the plan was approved.

The larger part of Bukit Brown will not be developed for some time yet. When the area is eventually needed for development, relevant agencies will similarly be consulted for their assessment and recommendation of measures needed to address any drainage issue.

Helen Lim (Ms)
Director, Media Relations and Public Education
Land Transport Authority

Ms Hwang Yu-Ning
Group Director (Physical Planning)
Urban Redevelopment Authority

What effect will the development of Bukit Brown have on flooding?
11 Feb 2012, TODAY

The Environment and Water Resources Ministry recently released the "Report on Key Conclusions and Recommendations of the Expert Panel on Drainage Design and Flood Protection Measures".

The report states: "Urbanisation has undoubtedly led to an increase in storm water runoff in Singapore. There is therefore a strong argument for introducing measures to mitigate the effects of such urbanisation."

The report also indicates the importance of modelling and analysis in understanding and mitigating the effects of urbanisation on flooding.

In this regard, I ask the Urban Redevelopment Authority, Land Transport Authority and related agencies to share with the public their studies on the effects of road building and future development at Bukit Brown Cemetery on flooding.

It would also be helpful if the relevant bodies could specify their plans, based on this research, to address any flooding that may arise.

If such a study is not ready for release, it would be useful if the agencies could say when it would be and how they intend to act on its findings.

Such environmental impact studies are common to many large-scale construction and development projects around the world.

Making such information available would help members of the public who may be affected by plans to develop Bukit Brown.

Chong Ja Ian