30 Jan 07

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SINGAPORE: Singapore’s drains, canals and reservoirs will undergo transformations into more user-friendly streams, rivers and lakes by 2009, according to national water agency PUB, and the public can get a peek into the long-term plans at an exhibition next week.

The Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters programme is intended to bring people closer to water through improved waterfronts and recreation areas as well as foster education about this precious resource.

"In the last two years, we have been trying to bring people nearer to water through the introduction of water activities at reservoirs, such as kayaking, rowing, fishing and so on", says Tan Nguan Sen, Project Director for ABC.

"Under the ABC Waters programme, we will bring the water to the people by exploiting the potential of our water bodies throughout the island".

Singapore already has a pervasive network of 14 reservoirs, 32 major rivers and more than 7000 km of canals and drains.

Since the launch of the ABC Waters programme last April, three projects at Bedok Reservoir, MacRitchie Reservoir and a stretch of Kallang River at Kolam Ayer have been underway.

The aim also is to increase Singapore’s water catchment areas from covering half of the island to two thirds, within five years.

Today the PUB revealed further plans for the ABC Waters signature projects including two new reservoirs to be created in the northeast of Singapore; the rejuvenation of Kallang River; and Optimising Alexandra Canal and its water.

The two new reservoirs will be created when Sungei Punggol and Sungei Serangoon are dammed, to create Singapore’s 16th and 17th reservoirs by 2009.

The Punggol Reservoir will include a floating wetland the size of half a football field, where the public will be able to access via a suspended bridge on one side and a floating boardwalk on the other.

"The suspended bridge will offer an aerial view of the reservoir and of kayakers rowing beneath it, while the floating boardwalk gives an entirely different experience. As it floats just above the water, the floating boardwalk will move in tandem with any vibrations in the water", says Mr Tan.

Along the edge of Serangoon Reservoir, the Lorong Halus Wetland will become Singapore’s first constructed wetland, having been transformed from a former landfill.

This will be the size of 18 football fields and will bring together a range of plants such as cat tails and common reeds that filter surface run-off from the former landfill, allowing for natural purification to be part of the water treatment process.

The longest river in Singapore at 10km, Kallang River, will also be given a facelift in areas where the public are likely to utilise it for recreation.

Under a joint ABC Waters project between PUB and the National Parks Board, the huge concrete canal at Bishan Park will also be transformed, becoming a river with landscaped banks.

Residents of the housing estate near Bishan Park now separated by the canal will have direct access to the Park with improved footbridges and be able to enjoy streams and water play areas.

"As part of the proposal for Bishan Park, the water edge of the river will be softened with plants which will create a strong connection and extension from Lower Peirce Reservoir, where the river originates. Water will be very much part of the park which will demonstrate how recreation and storm water management can co-exist", says Yeo Meng Tong, Director, Parks Development, National Parks Board.

A transformed 200m stretch of Kallang River at Kolam Ayer will feature interactive structures such as an Archimedes Screw and water wheel which will allow residents to draw water from the canal into a stream.

Patrons at the Zion Road Hawker Centre will also be able to enjoy outdoor water features along Alexandra Canal, one of the main canals flowing into the Singapore River.

"We want to bring everyone close to water so that we can all be inspired and motivated to take care of our precious water resource by using it wisely and keeping it clean. Water is a shared resource and as the national water agency, PUB hopes all of us will realize we are all owners of it", adds Mr Tan.

The public can find out more about the Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters programme at the Asian Civilisations Museum from Feb 6 – 11, where experts will share their views and water activities, such as electric boat rides and aqua bikes, will be available.


By Yvonne Yong

Interesting developments. Few years ago, bridges to join different adjacent hills or parks were proposed, now beautifying waterways. :banana:

I wonder what is the progress status of the project to join Mount Faber to Telok Blangah Hill and Kent Ridge Parks.

I think the construction is taking place this year or it should be finished this year.

In any case, Singapore's parks and waterways will be connected-up to make them more accessible for people to enjoy. I expect to hear more news of these proposals :)

Are they going to build fountains? I feel they look great on waterfronts.

There will be landscaped areas around the canals I think..possibly with fountains.

S'pore set to become city of gardens and water: PM Lee

6 Feb 07

PRIME Minister Lee Hsien Loong says Singapore has come a long way in cleaning up and transforming its environment, and having achieved international recognition as a garden city, it is now ready to embark on its next phase to become a city of gardens and water.

'We will build a first-class living environment for ourselves and our children. We will ensure that we have something special and unique in Singapore, which all of us can enjoy and be proud of,' he said.

Mr Lee said Singapore can be proud of its extensive water network that spans 14 reservoirs, 32 major rivers and more than 7,000 kilometres of other waterways including canals and drains.

'Few cities in the world have such a pervasive and well-integrated network of waterways,' he said at the launch of the Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Waters Exhibition at the Asian Civilisations Museum on Tuesday.

'Imagine looking out of your HDB apartment window and instead of seeing a huge concrete canal, you set your eyes on a sparkling river with landscaped banks, with kayakers paddling in the stream, with lively play areas for children, and with boardwalks and bridges for families to enjoy outings together.

'This is not a far-fetched scenario,' he said.

Mr Lee said Singapore's waterways were built primarily for functional reasons such as flood prevention and water storage.

'We should now take the next step forward. Our waterways should do more than meet our water needs. They should also enhance our living environment and lifestyle. This calls for a bold change of mindset,' he said.

'In the past, we protected our water resources by keeping people away from them; now, we will bring people closer to water so that they will enjoy and cherish it more,' he added.

Mr Lee said many rivers and canals are in or close to the residential heartlands and can be a natural focal point for water-based activities, community events, and other recreational options.

'By linking up our water bodies and waterways, we will create new community spaces that are clean, pleasant, and bustling with life and activities. We will integrate our water bodies with our parks and green spaces and turn Singapore into a city of gardens and waters,' Mr Lee said.

ABC of water programme
Mr Lee said this is what Singapore aims to achieve with the ABC Waters programme, which has three broad elements.

'A' for Active, so that Singaporeans can enjoy a wide range of water-based activities, from canoeing and sailing to dragon-boat racing.

‘B’ for Beautiful, because we want to transform our waterways into beautiful streams, rivers and lakes that enhance our living environment.

‘C’ for Clean, so that whatever we do with our water bodies, they will continue to be kept litter- and pollution-free.

To achieve these goals, the Public Utilities Board (PUB) and its consultants have drawn up a master-plan for the long-term development of the water catchments.

'We will proceed in a sustainable manner, and strike the right balance between maximising the land for development and protecting it for recreational use,' Mr Lee said.

Mr Lee said the PUB has identified 150 locations where projects can be implemented in phases over the next 10 to 15 years. These projects will be implemented through a combination of public and private sector expertise and financing.

He cited two examples. One is the Kallang River’s upstream stretch through Bishan Park, which is a popular recreation area for the large residential areas nearby, including Ang Mo Kio and Bishan.

Native plant species will be re-introduced along the river, as an extension of the nearby nature reserves. New features like an integrated river playground and water play areas will be introduced to encourage more interaction with the water.

The existing ponds in the Park can also be converted into wetland ponds that help to improve the quality of storm-water entering the Kallang River.

'All this will enhance residents’ experience of Bishan Park and Kallang River as a venue for both active recreation, as well as more quiet uses such as meditation and simple enjoyment of the surroundings,' Mr Lee said.

Another example is Sungei Punggol. Its peaceful suburban atmosphere will be enhanced with a floating island. This island will be planted with mangroves and wetlands which can help purify the waters, and act as a habitat for birds and fishes.

The island will also be connected to both river banks, forming a convenient link for residents to access amenities on both sides of the banks and enjoy the surroundings.

Sungei Punggol can become a sanctuary to explore nature as well as to carry out water activities like canoeing and kayaking.

Mr Lee urged private property developers to participate in the ABC Waters programme by integrating waterways into their developments and designs.

PUB has set up a 'green lane' approval channel to expedite proposals that incorporate the ABC elements into their developments.

'I hope that developers will come up with 'out-of-the-box concepts that feature surrounding waterscapes in your designs. In doing so, you will not only enhance the value of your developments, but also play a part in creating Singapore’s future living environment,' Mr Lee said.


By Jermyn Chow, ST Interactive reporter

Are they going to build fountains? I feel they look great on waterfronts.
There are plans for a huge 12 storey-high water fountain, the tallest in Singapore, to be built in the middle of the Kallang Basin bay of the Marina Reservoir by 2009.

From PUB's website:

Tallest fountain at Marina Reservoir
Singapore's tallest fountain will take centrestage at the new Marina Reservoir when it is ready in 2009.

Besides the Marina Barrage which will offer scenic views of the city skyline, a 12-storey high fountain will add to the attraction in that area. Shooting 36m jets of water majestically towards the sky, the fountain also marks the point where the water is drawn in from the Marina Reservoir into a nearby pump house, located near the Merdeka Bridge.

S'pore scientists to tap Dutch expertise in testing waterways

18 Apr 07

Research centre aims to turn water bodies into recreation areas

AMSTERDAM - A RESEARCH centre staffed by Singapore and Dutch scientists will carry out on-site tests of the Republic's urban water bodies, aiming to turn them into clean and beautiful recreation centres.
The centre is part of the Singapore-Delft Water Alliance (SDWA) project set up earlier this year.

It proposes to begin work at a large canal in Ulu Pandan and the coastal mangrove swamp at Pulau Semakau by the end of this year.

The scientists, who will eventually test the water in stormdrains, canals, reservoirs and coastal areas, are from the National University of Singapore's Department of Biology and Dutch water company Delft Hydraulics.

They will look into how underwater animals and plants affect the movement of water and its quality, which are key factors in Singapore's drive to create Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Waters, said Public Utilities Board chief Khoo Teng Chye.

The researchers could well use 'electric fish', for example, to create small electric fields that will act as sensors to monitor water conditions.

These could act as 'early-warning systems' for the presence of pollutants in Singapore's waterways, explained Professor Peter Ng, director of the Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research.

He was presenting the plans for the SDWA - a partnership between Delft, NUS and PUB - on the second day of a week-long study visit by a Singapore team to European water and clean-energy institutes.

The group, led by National Research Foundation chairman Tony Tan, toured Delft's research facilities near Rotterdam which included a 130m-long 'wave modelling' tank.

The 80-year-old Dutch company is famous for using complex computer systems to model wave patterns, allowing for the observation of water properties.

Its technical know-how was used in the building of the Netherlands' Maeslant Barrier and Singapore's Marina Barrage.

Maeslant, a 360m-long steel flood-control facility, is located at the mouth of the Rotterdam Harbour. It weighs 36,000 tonnes and consists of two arms that can pivot shut against rising sea levels. Otherwise, it remains open to allow ships to pass through.

The barrier was the first stop made by Dr Tan after his arrival on Sunday.

Noting that the technological marvel is still the only one ever built, he had just one word for it: 'Impressive.'

Mr Khoo said using Dutch technology will ensure the success of Singapore's own big-ticket projects - the development of ABC waterways and the building of the Marina Barrage.

Dr Tan, stressing the need to learn from countries with expertise in such areas, echoed the point: 'Alone, we cannot succeed in this industry. We must get all the help we can.'

The trip by the Singapore team follows the Research Innovation and Enterprise Council's announcement last month that the clean-energy industry will become another engine for the country's economic growth.

It is expected to provide some 7,000 jobs and contribute about $1.7 billion to Singapore's gross domestic product by 2015.


By Tania Tan

You can now cycle from Pasir Ris Park to Bedok. And later to other Parks by the end of this years.

Great work. :banana:

another mode of transport will be created. singapore citizens will have to go for kayaking license so that they can kayak along the canals and rivers to work and school..!!

This is a brilliant idea!

Many of the "rivers" here are now giant drains with hardly a trickle of water. :lol:

Which I think is all the more reason to beautify them. When they're not full of water they look really ugly and are clearly just drains, so any initiative to cover up the sides, to soften the effect of all that concrete is very welcome in my opinion.

Which I think is all the more reason to beautify them. When they're not full of water they look really ugly and are clearly just drains, so any initiative to cover up the sides, to soften the effect of all that concrete is very welcome in my opinion.

For those rivers/canals in the Marina Reservoir catchment area, they would be at a constant water level once the barrage is up as they would not be affected by tides. Hope they would look more full by that time.

I was at the National Library building @ Bras Basar last week and there was/is an exhibition on the waterways makeover. I'm not sure if the exhibition is still there today.

The overall planning is indeed impressive and I can't wait for the whole plan to come to fruit.

I love their ideas on the giant drains

I was at the National Library building @ Bras Basar last week and there was/is an exhibition on the waterways makeover. I'm not sure if the exhibition is still there today.
There is no more National Library building @ Bras Basah anymore.... we all miss that old place. it has been demolished some years ago. You mean the National Library @ Victoria Street instead?

I saw the same exhibition when they launched it at the Asian Civilisations Musem. Impressive indeed.

There is no more National Library building @ Bras Basah anymore.... we all miss that old place. it has been demolished some years ago. You mean the National Library @ Victoria Street instead?

oops, sorry, I meant the new building beside Bras Basah complex.

It would be real nice to see the following

Lighted Fountains in the middle of the canals.

Kelong /water chalet type restaurants/hotels alongside the canal banks.

Floating jetties for kids to do kampong fishing

Commercially operated canoe/motorised sampan rental outlets.

Bukit Timah Canal between Farrer Road and Stevens Road converted into a beach park.

For those rivers/canals in the Marina Reservoir catchment area, they would be at a constant water level once the barrage is up as they would not be affected by tides. Hope they would look more full by that time.
Ah yes, I hadn't thought of that, it should make a big difference, at least to the ones flowing into Marina Bay.

So many rivers here had been urbanised with concrete banks. Hope they will fill up with water soon. Most of them only fill up with water in extremely heavy rains.

Checked out the Alexandra Canal.

It consists of 2 portions:

The stretch from Tanglin Road to Zion Road remains as an open canal, and the basic park connector is already existing:

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Further west, the canal is decked over, and a linear park is being built over it. The portion at Dawson Road is in full swing, with a future housing estate under construction:

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people are using the paths for jogging currently. a nice quiet route.

when works beginning on this part of the canal, it'll be messy.

And dusty:lol:

cheers

excelsvr

i definitely love this project!
plus the linking bridges to various park!
:banana: :banana: :banana:

Well at least they bothered to build a linear park! I can imagine Domain 21 and Jervois Jade owners pinching their nose after a rainstorm!

cheers

excelsvr

Well at least they bothered to build a linear park! I can imagine Domain 21 and Jervois Jade owners pinching their nose after a rainstorm!

cheers

excelsvr

I hope they change the ABC plans for Rochor Canal to make it a linear park too. I doubt people would want to get into the smelly Rochor Canal for any water-based activities so they might as well cover up the Rochor Canal section from Sim Lim Square down to Southbank.

PUB's original plan for the Rochor Canal is to build floating walkways in the middle of the canal with a floating art market and floating exhibitions for arts and events. These plans would work only if the stench is completely removed.

What causes the stench?

I have hope to see the aesthetic transformation of Rochor Canal. I'm sure that with the creation of the new Marina reservoir, the water would have to be clean.

The only problem is if the people are Sungei Rd throw stuff into it.

What causes the stench?

I have hope to see the aesthetic transformation of Rochor Canal. I'm sure that with the creation of the new Marina reservoir, the water would have to be clean.

The only problem is if the people are Sungei Rd throw stuff into it.

Not sure but from the rubbish seen at the bottom of the canal, its obvious people still treat it as a big and convenient trash bin. The water is also murky so there might be pollution flowing in from somewhere.

Kallang Rive is practically a giant drain. From maps it's a river, with housing by the river. People might look at the map and think of river front living, but it's nothing more than a dry drain

Kallang Rive is practically a giant drain. From maps it's a river, with housing by the river. People might look at the map and think of river front living, but it's nothing more than a dry drain
Kallang River is not really a dry drain from the Kolam Ayer section to the mouth at Merdeka Bridge/Nicoll Highway. It is permanently filled with water and fills and wanes with the sea tides. In the past, even crocodiles have been caught there.

Rochor Canal is less exciting and is merely a longkang which should be covered up instead of trying to introduce a floating market and a pontoon boardwalk in the middle of it.

Haha I ment the river at Bishan

I hope they change the ABC plans for Rochor Canal to make it a linear park too. I doubt people would want to get into the smelly Rochor Canal for any water-based activities so they might as well cover up the Rochor Canal section from Sim Lim Square down to Southbank.

PUB's original plan for the Rochor Canal is to build floating walkways in the middle of the canal with a floating art market and floating exhibitions for arts and events. These plans would work only if the stench is completely removed.

I think the stench only comes after a rainstorm. To remove it is to ask me to knock my head into the wall and expect the building to collaspe.

cheers

excelsvr

Not sure but from the rubbish seen at the bottom of the canal, its obvious people still treat it as a big and convenient trash bin. The water is also murky so there might be pollution flowing in from somewhere.

Could the murkiness just be silty discharge after rain?

I dont think there are anymore pollutive industrial uses sited along the waterways leading into Marina Reservoir.

Actually, by beautifying the canal and turning it into an attraction for people to walk through, could make it less likely for people to want to litter. This is less likely also when the vacant land alongside becomes developed, like the Singapore River.

Yup. They would wnat to keep it beautiful and awesome.

cheers

excelsvr

Maybe is the rotting natural matter? And the water is too shallow, making the water saturated with rotting smell?

Now what natural matter could get inside there to rot?

cheers

excelsvr

Anything. Silt from soil, leaves in the canal, etc

-Dead insects
-Dead birds
-Fruits drop in
-How about me? :lol:
The list continues...

cheers

excelsvr

New 176m above water "Flying Fox" ride at Bedok Reservoir, any taker?


（新加坡讯）勿洛蓄水池公园架起本地首个“树梢探险挑战”，公众能在“空中”探险，接近大自然！

　　这项崭新的森林探险设施自8月底开放以来，已经吸引了约800人前来进行挑战，利用梯子、吊桥、秋千、滑梯等，在离地面5米的高处穿越树林，成为现代版的“泰山”。

　　坐落在勿洛蓄水池的探险设施，包括“宏观路程”和“小孩路程”，前者适合成人和高度在1.4米（约10岁以上）以上的孩童尝试，后者则是为高度1.1米（约5岁以上）以上的孩童而设计。

　　值得一提的是，探险者还有机会尝试世界上首个水上“飞狐”，在高空滑过长达176米的绳索。

Flying Fox is fun! Is it the one where they attach a harness to you and then to the string on top then you just jump? Oh my gosh, 176m above water?

I do not think it is the stench of dead birds or rubbish. the other day, after the rain, I was walking along clarke quay around 11 in the evening and the water was a low tide. The stench was strong all right. From my experience, it is the natural smell of the river bed... Our river beds are made up of muds and silts and that is the cause of it..

Yes, I've noticed that the stench only is around when the tide is low. The lower the tide, the stinkier the area is. Once the marina barrage is up and low tide shouldn't be an issue, right? So hopefully the bad smell will no longer be a problem for any of the rivers: Singapore, Kallang, etc.

You could be right, because now it is sea water in the rivers, and not purified or at least clean to a certain degree type of water.

Does anyone know what the F1 race course means to the waterways project?

Specifically, the area of Marina Promenade Park. There's supposed to be a park connector here that would allow a person to go from Esplanade all the way to Kallang Sea Sports Centre.

But the construction for the Singapore Flyer already cuts off the connector. And it looks like the F1 course goes on parts of the connector. Does this mean that the park connector is gone?

Does anyone know what the F1 race course means to the waterways project?

Specifically, the area of Marina Promenade Park. There's supposed to be a park connector here that would allow a person to go from Esplanade all the way to Kallang Sea Sports Centre.

But the construction for the Singapore Flyer already cuts off the connector. And it looks like the F1 course goes on parts of the connector. Does this mean that the park connector is gone?

That's the reason why I think the Gardens-by-the-Bay at Marina Centre might never come true anymore.

Mav, do you mean the Gardens by the Bay (east) might not come to be because of the F1 race?

The one at Marina South doesn't look like it would be effected by F1. But even the East side is separated by water from the race course.

The race is only on for a short time - the rest of the year couldn't people use the park connector?

Does this also mean plans to extend North Bridge Road might also be scrapped?

Mav, do you mean the Gardens by the Bay (east) might not come to be because of the F1 race?

The one at Marina South doesn't look like it would be effected by F1. But even the East side is separated by water from the race course.

The race is only on for a short time - the rest of the year couldn't people use the park connector?

Does this also mean plans to extend North Bridge Road might also be scrapped?

The Gardens-by-the-Bay consists of 3 parts: Marina South, Marina Central and Marina East. The winners for the Marina South and East gardens have been announced and contracts given but there are no winners for the Marina Central gardens yet. With the Singapore Flyer and F1 there now, I believe URA might not go ahead to develop the Marina Central part of the new gardens (no declared winners yet) or it might be scaled down as the space for the new gardens could be too small now. It can still function as a park connector.

I see - I missed out the Marina Central part of the Gardens by the Bay project.

Maybe it will be an F1 themed park?

Suppose we have to just wait and see if it comes, but I think I won't be holding my breath.

With so many developments planned at Marina Centre like the Singapore Flyer and its related infrastructure, that F1 stand- thingy, it would be wise for the area to mature before building the Gardens here. If not, money will have to be wasted demolishing it.

They had spent so much money to pave the Marina Ctr promenade from the Esplanade to the Singapore Flyer, only to be demolished to make way for the vehicular bridge and Floating Platform construction.

That's why you must think before you hop.

That's why you must think before you hop.

Singapore can be considered very well planned and thought of already if u compare her to other countries.

@kurakura

I was referring to what ddarkdom said. He said that the government spent so much money to pave the Marina Center promenade from the Esplanade to the Singapore Flyer, only to be demolished to make way for the vehicular bridge and Floating Platform construction.

@kurakura

I was referring to what ddarkdom said. He said that the government spent so much money to pave the Marina Center promenade from the Esplanade to the Singapore Flyer, only to be demolished to make way for the vehicular bridge and Floating Platform construction.

much less than what they lost in thailand:lol:

What/what/when/why lost in Thailand? :lol:

What/what/when/why lost in Thailand? :lol:

Go read up about why the Thaksin government was overthrown in Thailand.

Oh. Thaksin Shinawatra was overthrown by the military right?

Oh. Thaksin Shinawatra was overthrown by the military right?

yeap. just google the keywords on temasek and thailand etc etc

ShinCorp also can right? :nuts:

ShinCorp also can right? :nuts:

tsk tsk

:):lol:

Panel set up to help developers incorporate waterways into projects

5 Apr 08

SINGAPORE: Singapore's water agency, PUB, has formed an ABC Waters Review Panel to help developers incorporate water bodies into their projects.

It was set up late last year together with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Law Ministry. The panel also has several high-profile local architects as members.

Environment and Water Resources Minister, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, revealed this at the launch of the S$2.5 million Kolam Ayer ABC Waterfront pilot project – under PUB's Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Waters programme – on Saturday.

Dr Yaacob said: "The idea is very simple. At the end of the day, when developers develop their projects, I'm sure there must be ways in which they can integrate waterways in their design. Previously, that integration had not occurred. They saw it as a setback to have to fulfil a PUB requirement, but now we are telling them that there are ways in which that can be integrated.

"The panel will help to advise the developers on what they can do to integrate the waterways. With the enhancement, that could be a selling point. We want to explore the possibilities."

PUB will also produce a set of ABC Waters Design Guidelines to provide design ideas and technical support for professionals.

Developers who incorporate water features into projects already have a fast-track process to tap on the 'green lane'. Since it was introduced in 2006, 15 proposals have been submitted via this channel.

On the Kolam Ayer facelift project, Dr Yaacob said even though the physical infrastructure has been completed, the important factor now is the involvement of the community to take ownership and ensure the area remains clean and vibrant.

He said: "For the place to come alive, we need residents to take ownership. I'll be very happy if we can demonstrate this as a viable and sustainable project over the long term."

Chiang Heng Liang, Chairman of the ABC Waters Project Community Workshop, said: "It's up to the community, the people, the grassroots, residents, interest groups and all these people coming together to organise gatherings and meaningful activities... to interact and mingle."

Four groups have already expressed interest in helping to inject vibrancy into the area. They include Bendemeer primary and secondary schools which have adopted sections of the river to conduct river patrols and organise river clean-ups.

For a particular family, the completion of the waterfront project is worth waiting for.

Ismail Yacob, a Kolam Ayer resident, said: "It enhances the quality of life and, at the same time, beautifies our estate."

His wife, Nurashikin I Cheong, said: "Maybe during school holidays, we can come here to barbeque."

With this development completed, residents can look forward to more activities by the waterfront such as yoga and a Sunday flea market.

Ongoing facelifts under PUB's ABC Waters programme are being conducted at Bedok and MacRitchie reservoirs.


By Hasnita A Majid, Channel NewsAsia

Splash of activities during S'pore Int'l Water Week

18 June 08

TODAY, 3.2 billion of the world's population lives in cities. By 2030, the figure will be five billion. This means three out of five people will be city dwellers in 22 years.
This is not good news, especially in Asia, where already 700 million people have no access to clean drinking water, and 1.5 billion, no to basic sanitation.

It is why more than 6,000 government officials, scientists, industry experts and businessmen from across the world will be meeting here next week to explore ways to make cities more liveable, at a time when population growth and economic progress are putting pressure on the world?s resources.

They will attend two inaugural events - the Singapore International Water Week and the World Cities Summit - which are being held for the first time and Singapore is organising both.

The theme for the water event, organised by the national water agency PUB, is 'Sustainable Water Solutions for Cities'.

The cities summit, organised by the Ministry of National Development, the Civil Service College and the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, will be along the theme 'Liveable and Vibrant Cities'.

Under the wings of these two big events are more than 20 international high-level meetings and workshops, including a conference with a special focus on East Asia.

Although most of the event's sessions will involve government officials, businessmen, scientists and industry experts, some activities will be tailored for students and the public.

Policymakers will largely be involved in meetings to discuss challenges of growing urban populations. Among the public events planned are forums and a concert at the Esplanade Concert Hall, where water is the guest star.

There will also be sports demonstrations and activities at Bedok Reservoir and Marina Bay, and a science exhibition at the Science Centre Singapore.

A concert featuring the composer of the Oscar-winning score of the Chinese film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, will be held at the Esplanade Concert Hall.

Bedok Reservoir will come alive for the three nights from June 20 to 22 before the start of the water conference week with an energetic performance by Dutch theatre troupe The Lunatics.

The name of their performance is Hydro Sapiens, a play on the scientific term for human beings, homo sapien.

The Marina Bay area will also be turned into a field for canoe polo matches and a stage for water ski performances.

And the Science Centre Singapore is holding an exhibition on water and how it shapes ecosystems around the world.


By Liaw Wy-Cin

PUB to award tenders worth S$1.1b to transform Spore's water bodies
By Imelda Saad, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 26 June 2008 2017 hrs

A model of Marina Reservoir

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/imagegallery/store/phpOwALHs.jpg

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/imagegallery/store/phpgyBnqI.jpg

SINGAPORE : Singapore's national water agency PUB plans to award some 120 tenders worth about S$$1.1 billion between July this year and June 2009.

One of the bigger projects to be rolled out over the next 12 months is the Marina Reservoir Recirculation Scheme.

It will bring flowing water from surrounding tributaries such as the Alexandra and Rochor canals, and Kallang River into the Marina Reservoir - which will be created once the Marina Barrage is ready early next year.

The Marina Reservoir Recirculation Scheme, to be completed by 2011, is expected to improve water quality at reservoir and open up the area for recreational purposes.

"The Marina Reservoir (serves) three (purposes) - flood control, water supply and of course, recreational use," said Devaraj Sanmuganathan, Deputy Director of Best Sourcing Department at PUB.

Tenders for the Marina Reservoir Recirculation Scheme will be carried out in 4 phases, from July to October this year.

"Flowing water creates an ideal environment for aquatic life, and the Marina Reservoir Recirculation Scheme does that. So with this flow, water will be clean and pristine, and anyone can enjoy sailing and canoeing activities there," said Sanmuganathan.

Other projects announced include the development of the Lower Seletar potable water treatment plant.

There is also the Active Beautiful Clean (ABC) Waters Programme, which seeks to transform concrete drains and canals into flowing streams and rivers. This project is divided into three catchment areas - in the western, central and eastern parts of Singapore. Tenders will be called in the last quarter of the year. - CNA /ls

Government to review scope & implementation of new water projects

16 Sep 08

By Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: The Government will review the scope and implementation of yet-to-be launched projects under the Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Waters programme in view of escalating construction costs.

The ABC Waters programme aims to transform drains, canals and reservoirs into recreational water bodies.

Six more projects are in the pipeline with tenders to be called by the end of this financial year.

These projects are at Pandan Reservoir, Jurong Lake, Alexandra Canal, Sungei Whampoa at St George's Lane, Sungei Serangoon at Lorong Halus and Sungei Kallang at Bishan Park.

Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Yaacob Ibrahim said two recently launched projects at Sungei Punggol and Lower Seletar have seen construction costs gone up by between 15 and 20 per cent on average based on tender returns.

Giving an update on the programme in response to a Parliamentary question from Sembawang GRC MP Lim Wee Kiak, Mr Yaacob said the Government is mitigating the increasing construction costs in various ways.

For example, the PUB is exploring the use of innovative products and new technology to reduce construction and maintenance costs.

The agency will explore the use of concrete recycled from redevelopment works for the Bishan Park project.

At the detailed planning project, PUB and its consultants will review the scope and design of each project to optimise spending while meeting the community's needs.


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3295/2862821942_18afd6fa36_o.jpg

haha... eating their own words!!! paid top dollars to eat own words huh

The first phase of the Alexandra Canal project from Queenstown to Tanglin Road has already been completed, and features a linear park over the canal. I also think that the works at Kolam Ayer must be complete by now.

http://img390.imageshack.us/img390/6050/image084eu4.jpg
^^ this is one side of the bridge..busked with white lights..

the other side, which i didn't take any pic of, the bridge is flashing with random colors, looks terribly tacky and not up to standard.

and on the steps in front of central, the edges are lighted up, but seems tt the fittings are faulty or something, some of which were light up in different color.

overall, if they really spent a bomb on these fittings, i hope they can do a better job.:ohno:

yea i agree, theres been some lapse in standards.

about a year back, some works were made along the esplanade promenade, led lighting were added along the sea wall. the effects were tacky, and the lights were often faulty...

and from what i rem, the lights havent been turned on for some time.

Sometimes simplicity is the best

...

the other side, which i didn't take any pic of, the bridge is flashing with random colors, looks terribly tacky and not up to standard.

and on the steps in front of central, the edges are lighted up, but seems tt the fittings are faulty or something, some of which were light up in different color.

overall, if they really spent a bomb on these fittings, i hope they can do a better job.:ohno:

I do not think the LED lighting systems (dimmable+programmable multi and mono color LED lamps on the bridges, river walls, underpasses, riversteps, etc.) were the eating-money part in the river areas makeover. You should ask to the main local supplier which is based in Tagore Lane.

Unfortunately, I know they were thinking on the city colorful festivals more than in creating a everyday walking area. Maybe coz the Chinese factror! WE should like on it as temporary residents, as tourists must see it.:lol:

Cheers.

Carles

I don't know what you guys are thinking but I really thought the lighting up of the area is really nice, and suited for the area.

It does feel a tad tacky but I believe it's just us conservative Singapore residents being unused to a place which is suddenly becoming "louder".

being loud is ok..
but in a distasteful way is certainly no-no..:)

I don't find it distasteful in anyway. I don't find myself hating it.

I think the lighting effects are refreshing. People usually complain how dark the cityscape is at night anyway. I have yet to see the jellyfish lights in the water though.

the jellyfish lights are up, right infront of ACM...

and sadly, not too well executed imo. the lights are really dim, and it makes the murkiness of Singapore river look really obvious. amongst the lights are randomly placed red floating plastic spheres, that look like like ordinary nautical buoys.

A longkang is a longkang is a longkang. :lol:

Putting flowers, shrubs, park benches and fancy lighting along a longkang does not disguise the fact that it is still a longkang, with moss-stained concrete walls serving the main purpose of discharging rain water and effluents from residential/commercial areas into the sea.

Sometimes I read with horror news about people trying to catch guppies or fishes from these longkangs during low tide, and *gasp* bring home to cook and eat.

More thought should be put into cleaning up the water and "reconstructing" the way canals and drainage systems are build. :)

Last time they were true rivers, but they were later canalised and used for drainage.

I wonder what's the source of the rivers back then.

I don't think Singapore ever had any really wide or large natural rivers....for the Singapore River itself, I read that it starts as a creek in Queenstown.

However the reclamation at Marina South & Marina East have created more recreational waterfront coastline, and of course Marina Bay & Kallang Bay.

S'pore River light-up gets glowing feedback

28 Oct 08

http://www.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/image/20081028/ST_IMAGES_TWRIVER28D.jpg

TWO months after the first phase of the Great Singapore River Light-Up, locals and tourists have given the area the thumbs up for its enhanced ambience.
Completed in August, the multi-coloured lights festooning the bridges, underpasses and trees on the river and its banks are part of an ongoing project by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to beautify the river.

The works are also aimed at turning a tourist spot with patchy success into a bigger draw for visitors.

The STB has no numbers on traffic in the area, but some Boat Quay and Clarke Quay restaurants and bars have observed bigger crowds.

And most of the locals and tourists interviewed by the river said they liked the changes and were now keener on revisiting the area.

On a visit one recent weekday evening, The Straits Times found office workers, students and joggers on the river banks, and tourists posing for pictures in front of the glowing bridges.

Danish expatriate Nadja Sondergaard, 24, who was taking in the view at UOB Plaza, said: 'The lighting makes everything look cosy, and frames the river's features better.'

Nearby, bank officer Xann Tay, 27, was stretching before a jog along the river banks with two colleagues. 'It's visually quite nice for running. It's more vibrant and colourful,' she said.

Australian honeymooners Mark and Helen Harper also liked what they saw.

Mrs Harper, 29, said: 'We're from Brisbane, which also has a river, but it's not lit up quite so appealingly.'

Such comments are probably music to the STB's ears. With the growth in tourist arrivals having slowed in recent months, it has become even more important for Singapore's attractions to remain relevant.

Boat Quay and Clarke Quay attracted only 7 per cent of visitors in 2006, dismal against Orchard Road's 73 per cent. Visitor numbers at the two quays went up marginally last year to 8 per cent.

The STB, coy about how much it has spent to revamp the river, is now moving into the second and final phase of the project, when it will bring similar lighting improvements to the stretch from Robertson Quay to Kim Seng Bridge. This phase is expected to be completed in March.

But while the crowds are coming, cash registers are not exactly ringing down the entire strip.

A few restaurants and bars, particularly those popular with the Shenton Way crowd, have reported a 10 per cent increase in business, but some merchants in the area have not seen the jump in business that they had hoped would buffer them from the coming slump in business expected.

A manager of a Boat Quay bar who declined to be named said tourist traffic appeared to have plunged 40 per cent recently; other operators in both quays complained that the lights lacked the impact to attract tourists.

In response, the STB has said it takes two hands to clap. Its director of events and entertainment cluster development Lynette Pang said that the merchants also had to do their bit to be creative about their product offerings.

By Tessa Wong
Straits Times

http://www.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/image/20081028/ST_IMAGES_TWRIVER28.jpg

a tremendous job there, singapore! :okay:

may i know...how much does it cost for the whole project?

Sometimes these bar and restaurants owners should not be complaining to much. They should understand the whole world situation. Of course most of the shenton way crowds are nowhere to be seen, they have a hole in the pockets now. With the financial crisis still looming around, their budget has tremendously been cut to the basic; a beer and a prata.
On the other hand, the lights are awesome, these kind of fixtures will not attract lots of visitorship but at least viewership. What we want as well is a constant human flow in the area and not a ghost river. "Once the flower is place, the bees will be coming and in the long run then it will produce honey."

next step: water art, fountain displays, laser fixtures etc etc!

How about water jets like the dubai fountain or the one in geneve ? That would be interesting.

How about water jets like the dubai fountain or the one in geneve ? That would be interesting.

A water jet is indeed being built in the Kallang Basin and expected to be completed by 7th February 2009. It would be 12-storey high which unfortunately is still much shorter than the fabulous Jet d'Eau in Geneva.

Taken from the PUB website:

Location of On-going Works : "PUB PROJECT WITH FIXED SITES" M&E Works for Marina Raw Water Pumping Station - Off Republic Avenue
Estimated Date of Completion : 07/02/2009
Purpose of Works : M&E equipment for raw water pumping station, intake pipeline, weed drying area and related works. A 12-storeys high fountain will create a lifestyle attraction to the area by shooting 36m jets of water majestically towards the sky.


Tallest fountain at Marina Reservoir - 28 Oct 2005

Singapore's tallest fountain will take centrestage at the new Marina Reservoir when it is ready in 2009.

http://eservices.pub.gov.sg/images/mbccfountain.jpg
An artist impression of Singapore's tallest fountain

Besides the Marina Barrage which will offer scenic views of the city skyline, a 12-storey high fountain will add to the attraction in that area. Shooting 36m jets of water majestically towards the sky, the fountain also marks the point where the water is drawn in from the Marina Reservoir into a nearby pump house, located near the Merdeka Bridge. The water is then pumped northwards to Upper Peirce Reservoir through a 14-km long pipeline for storage. It is treated before being supplied to consumers.

"The fountain is the point where the water is drawn into a pipe linked to the pump house on the shore. It doesn't require excess energy to run it as it is feeding off the energy from the pump house. Although it serves a functional purpose to mark out where the water is drawn, we also wanted to create a lifestyle attraction at the same time," said Mr Moh Wung Hee, PUB's Director of Best Sourcing.

This project is managed by PUB, the national water agency. PUB announced today that it is calling for four tenders for the building of the water supply infrastructure for Marina Reservoir. The building of the fountain and the pump house are included in these tenders.

The first tender for the civil works for the raw water pumping station, intake structure, and the intake pipeline will be called today (28 Oct). The other three tenders on the mechanical & electrical works, and two stretches of the pipeline from the raw water pumping station to Upper Peirce Reservoir, will be called in November and December.

This next phase in the Marina Barrage project is estimated to cost S$90 million. Details on the tenders are available in GeBIZ at http://www.gebiz.gov.sg.

The Marina Barrage is a unique 3-in-1 project that will not only offer a new source of water supply, but also as a flood control and a new lifestyle attraction.

The 15th reservoir in Singapore and the first in the city, Marina Reservoir will be a key pillar of the water supply from local catchments. Water from local catchments is one of the Four National Taps, the other three being imported water from Johor, NEWater and desalinated water.

The freshwater reservoir, will be formed when the 350-metre long barrage is built across the mouth of the Marina Channel. Marina Reservoir will supply 10% of the current water demand. The largest and most urbanized catchment, it is fed by five tributaries -- the Singapore River, Geylang River, Kallang River, Rochor Canal and Stamford Canal. .

"From a flood control perspective, the water should be kept as low as possible. As a lifestyle attraction and for aesthetic purposes, the water level should be kept at a constant level. However, for water supply, we would want to have as much water as possible. This is what makes the Marina Reservoir project unique as a delicate balance has to be maintained so as to meet the three different needs," said Mr Moh.

The completion of Marina Reservoir and other reservoir schemes will transform two-thirds of Singapore from the current half into water catchment areas. Housing estates such as Toa Payoh and Bishan will be in the catchment area for the new Marina Reservoir.

"The excitement will be in the downtown area where the fountain will be an added attraction to the beautiful backdrop ideal for water-based and arts performances, cultural events and sporting competitions. We hope that when people participate in the water activities, they will reflect that it is possible only because we have kept the water clean. It is our wish that this will encourage Singaporeans to take greater ownership of water and actively help to keep our waterways, reservoirs and catchments clean," said Mr Yap Kheng Guan, PUB's Director of 3P Network.

y dun they make it higher? just do the best and not some half hearted attempt.

Sg has not many attraction anyway... so they might just make the tallest in the world to draw tourist

Singapore aims to build a sustainable living environment

20 May 09

SINGAPORE : Singapore will step up its efforts to build a sustainable living environment. The Environment and Water Resources Ministry, which spelt out its plans in its addendum to the President's Address delivered on Monday, said its vision is to create a 'Sustainable Singapore' where people use limited resources efficiently and innovatively, and proactively develop capabilities to deal with emerging challenges.

On boosting resource efficiency, Environment and Water Resources Minister Yaacob Ibrahim said his ministry will encourage recycling and conservation efforts through public education and working with the community.

The government will also invest in new capabilities to reduce waste and control pollution, in addition to Singapore's expertise in clean water and energy.

Dr Yaacob said a high quality living environment is Singapore's pride and joy, and is also key to attracting investments and global talents.

It will expand the Active, Beautiful and Clean Waters Programme to transform more water bodies into new and aesthetically pleasing community spaces.

The ministry will also uphold high standards of public health by ensuring good hygiene at food outlets, and step up efforts to keep public spaces litter-free. - CNA


http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/430591/1/.html

MacRitchie makeover done

Phase 1 ready with two-storey carpark; amenities centre and food kiosk yet to open

31 May 09

The long wait is over for nature lovers and fitness buffs who need their 'fix' at MacRitchie Reservoir Park.
Phase One of a $5 million spruce-up is ready, complete with a new two-storey carpark with 300 parking spaces.

The makeover began in early 2007 but work at the 12ha park came to a halt in January last year when the contractor, Wacon Construction & Trading, went bust.

A new tender was called and Swee Builders took over the project in May last year.

The new carpark has 110 more parking spaces than what were available in three open-air carparks previously.

Businessman Eric Tay, 56, who jogs at the park thrice a week, said: 'I have been looking forward to the new facilities. It is much easier to find a parking space now.'

Other new features include an amenities centre with toilet and shower facilities, as well as a food kiosk. The centre is not open yet.

A spokesman for PUB, the national water agency, said Phase Two will begin in July and is expected to be completed at the end of next year.

New features to be added to the park in this phase will be announced in late July during an event to celebrate the completion of Phase One.

The National Parks Board and the PUB are behind the extensive upgrading of the 42-year-old park.

It is part of PUB's Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters programme to freshen up the country's reservoirs and rivers.

While regular visitors welcomed the changes at MacRitchie, they wondered whether parking fees would be imposed soon, as open-air parking used to be free. They pointed to what looked like paid parking barrier arms being put up at the carpark entrance.

PUB could not confirm whether paid parking was imminent but said parking would be free for now.

Regular jogger C.Y. Tin, a 34-year-old relationship manager, said: 'The authorities have been promoting healthy living and we are responding by coming here to exercise. We should not be charged for parking here.'

http://www.straitstimes.com/News/Home/Story/STIStory_383950.html?sunwMethod=GET

Kallang River needs to be turned into a real river

Kallang River needs to be turned into a real river

The part from Bendemeer Road downstream to Nicoll Highway is still pretty clean and scenic. The section next to the PIE beside Toa Payoh is just a concrete longkang with unsightly rubbish floating in it. They should just clean that up or cover it.

^^

I think that section is called Sungei Whampoa with a simple park connector next to it.

When I visited it in 2005 it was quite shocking the amount of crap thrown into there. Its pathetic if its still happening now with the Marina Barrage operating :ohno:

I was referring to the stretch at Bishan

I agree. Something like Cheonggyecheon stream restoration in Seoul would be very nice for all the canals in Singapore.

My father called NParks and asked about that once. They said they'll turn it into a real river by 2020, as well as "rebuild" Bishan Park.

I agree. Something like Cheonggyecheon stream restoration in Seoul would be very nice for all the canals in Singapore.

I agree with you. Al the canals and streams should be revitalized to have a green countryside feeling in all areas of singapore.

My father called NParks and asked about that once. They said they'll turn it into a real river by 2020, as well as "rebuild" Bishan Park.

Why 11 years later? :ohno:

All these ideas of converting concrete canal walls to greenery are all spelt out in the waterways Masterplan.

http://www.pub.gov.sg/abcwaters/exploreabcaroundyou/Pages/default.aspx

Can check out the various catchment areas.

PUB has been a bit too busy for the past few years, Greening of the canals is not their top priority now. They were busy allevating floods by expanding many canals, just completed the Marina Barrage, and this month will officially open the DTSS and the huge Sewerage Treatment Plant in Changi.

If only the greening of the canals fell under NParks. I am sure it wld materialise much earlier.

I think it should be transferred to Nparks. They have better sense of aethestics.

My father called NParks and asked about that once. They said they'll turn it into a real river by 2020, as well as "rebuild" Bishan Park.

Yes. PUB is receiving tender this exactly this work at Bishan Park.

Got a website link to the tender?

Yes. PUB is receiving tender this exactly this work at Bishan Park.

to be fair its a joint project between Nparks and PUB

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/255552/1/.html

http://www.dreiseitl.de/index.php?id=525&lang=en&choice=58

to be fair its a joint project between Nparks and PUB

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/255552/1/.html

http://www.dreiseitl.de/index.php?id=525&lang=en&choice=58

Ya.. Was looking for the news... i know it was coming out...

Now I am really impressed!


Oct 1, 2009
River to be relocated
By Victoria Vaughan
SINGAPORE'S first river relocation project is set to make quite a scene at Bishan Park.

The concrete of Kallang drainage canal will be torn up and the water way will be brought into the park as a meandering river with gentle slopes and plant covered banks.

Costing about $76 million, the flagship project is part of the Active Beautiful Clean Waters programme from Singapore's water authority PUB in collaboration with National Parks.

The stretch of canal is currently running along the length of the green space.

When it is converted into the 3km river it will be worked on in sections to minimise disruption for the park's 3 million annual visitors and will be completed in 2011.

The project, ABC Waters@Kallang River-Bishan Park, aims to be environmentally sustainable.

The old concrete from the original canal will be recycled to help stabilise the new river banks and any trees displaced by the construction will be replanted in the park or recycled and used as part of the river banks.

About time... Hope they extend Bishan Park to the empty land beside the golf range.

but the thing is how come the water here is brownish...not in western countries though

High sediment level in the reservoir. Sg no or very few natural rivers left... all been turned into more or less large drains. Some have their "downstream" vegetation preserved but their "source" are drains.

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/4852/kalriver.jpg

Here's what Kallang River looks like now. :ohno:

It's good that Singapore is deciding to reactivate their "concretesized" waterways. It's high time the rivers have some added function besides being stormwater drains!

but the thing is how come the water here is brownish...not in western countries though

Sg is substantially a marine clay environment, which means the fine silt is perpetually suspended in the water, giving the brown look. Sg is also surrounded by neigbouring countries which means no ocean cleansing action.

The best waters are those fronting the oceans, where there sediments are quickly diluted by ocean waves.

In Sg early reclamation works, we chopped hills and used the topsoil for reclamation. This resulted in ECP beaches being brownish water. The latest reclamation is using imported riverbed or beach sand, which has low silt content.

Someone need to remind PUB that Bishan Canal is basically dry most of the time. No point greening the concrete banks if there is no water in the canal. Either dam up somewhere downstream to retain some water, or tell the Marina Barrage operator to keep more water.

I have always thot that creating more ponds within the canal wld be a good idea, basically to allow bigger fishes to hang around upstream rather than drain downstream 2 times a day.

"Kallang River" canal now is being used as outlet for runoff water from the Peirce Reservoirs.

Don't worry about the portion of Kallang Canal along Bishan being dry, they've been building several drainage pumps, meant to pump water from the Marina Reservoir upstream, kinda like what Seoul did for that river restoration project.

Don't worry about the portion of Kallang Canal along Bishan being dry, they've been building several drainage pumps, meant to pump water from the Marina Reservoir upstream, kinda like what Seoul did for that river restoration project.

Yes, that's what this project kind of reminded me of, although the action for that one was far more drastic, and very much required!

Google Cheongyecheon for more information

I guess a good example would be the river in Seoul. Maybe they are turning Bishan like that.

S'pore to host Canoe event

10 Feb 2010

http://www.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/image/20100210/canoe-samhe.jpg

SINGAPORE has been picked to hold the Canoe Marathon World Championships in October next year. It will be the first Asian country to host the event since its inception in 1988.

The event in Singapore will see paddlers competing in six different race categories of distances from 17km to 30km.

With races lasting approximately two to three hours, paddlers will have to negotiate with the water currents in a flat-water course of 4.3 km lap, starting from Marina Reservoir towards the Benjamin Sheares Bridge, the Singapore Canoe Federation (SCF) said in a press statement today.

The planned route will take the canoeists through the heart of Singapore's city and past famous landmarks like the Merlion, the Singapore Flyer, the Marina Barrage and the Esplanade.

As with the traditional canoe marathon format, participants in the C and K classes will also have to make some dashes to complete the necessary number of portage segments, where they will carry their boats across a stretch of about 100m at The Float @ Marina each time at the portage, before making a final push towards the finish line.

Jointly organised by the ICF and the Singapore Canoe Federation (SCF), the event will take place from Oct 22 to Oct 23.

http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_488890.html

The 1.1km long stretch of Rochor Canal between Jalan Besar and Crawford Street will be transformed into a vibrant river, seamlessly integrating with existing residential and commercial developments

17 Jul 11

http://www.pub.gov.sg/mpublications/PublishingImages/Press%20Release/RochorPromenade.jpg

http://www.pub.gov.sg/mpublications/Pages/PressReleases.aspx?ItemId=313

Rochor Canal between Jalan Besar and Crawford Street will be rejuvenated under PUB’s Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters (ABC Waters) programme from a mere concrete canal into an attractive river boasting look out decks and seating areas, all aimed at bringing people close to water and allowing opportunities for them to enjoy scenic views of the waterway.

Another main feature of the project is the Gateway Plaza, an open area near Ophir Road where people can gather for community events. Rain gardens will be incorporated along the rejuvenated Rochor River to help treat rainwater runoff from the promenade so cleaner water flows into the river.


The project, which will be completed in 2014, is an exciting addition to the stable of ABC Water’s projects that have transformed many of Singapore’s utilitarian waterways and waterbodies into beautiful and clean streams and lakes that are well integrated with our parks and land developments, creating new community spaces and enhancing the quality of life for all.

The revitalisation of Rochor Canal into Rochor River will allow for quiet respite amid the hustle and bustle of city life, just like Marina Reservoir, Singapore’s first reservoir in the heart of the city. With 15 ABC waters projects completed since the start of the programme in 2006, Singapore’s transformation into a city of gardens and water is fast taking shape.


“Water flowing in Rochor River will eventually end up in Marina Reservoir. To enjoy the revitalised Rochor River and its new features in the near future, we will all have to play a part in keeping our waterways clean and not litter into the drains in the area,” said Mr Tan Nguan Sen, PUB’s Director of Catchment and Waterways.

Yeah, it's time to make the concrete canals more beautiful and useful!

I really think this stretch of the city has great potential for a dramatic transformation, with the completion of the canal works and the DTL3 station. There are also quite a number of vacant plots besides Sim Lim Tower for some new developments.

Thats great. The whole area is pretty awful at the moment.

^^ Hmm, I have to agree, it is a little dull. Bishan Park a hell lot better now with the changes. :)

Thats great. The whole area is pretty awful at the moment.

I think this is timed also with the permanent closure of the Thieves Market at Sungei Road in less than 2 weeks time for the DTL3 construction.

The whole Rochor Canal is kinda narrow and dull. Not sure if the impact would be great with the ABC project.

Along with this, Sim Lim tower and most of the other towers around should be demolished!

^^ Nah, I doubt the developer would demolish it anytime soon since they just repainted the building.

^^ Nah, I doubt the developer would demolish it anytime soon since they just repainted the building.

This may mean nothing if there are better plans. The Office Chamber, a rather old office tower at the junction of nearby Kitchener Road and Jalan Besar, was repainted just a few months ago. That didnt stop the developer from demolishing it to make way for a new hotel.

^^ Hmm, you have a point. I will miss the electrical shops in Sim Lim Towers. Got a lot of my equipment and parts there for my projects.

I think this is timed also with the permanent closure of the Thieves Market at Sungei Road in less than 2 weeks time for the DTL3 construction.

The whole Rochor Canal is kinda narrow and dull. Not sure if the impact would be great with the ABC project.

Was hoping that Rochor Canal to be renovated once the DTL is completed but from plans posted here, it seems that that portion of canal at Little India would be diverted underground, with "future infrastructure" running where the canal is now.

they should get rid of the barriers..it looks better without the safety barrier. It is time that we be responsible for our own acts and not the government to support us in what we do..

Was hoping that Rochor Canal to be renovated once the DTL is completed but from plans posted here, it seems that that portion of canal at Little India would be diverted underground, with "future infrastructure" running where the canal is now.

Funny that so many people rushed to the historical KTM railway stations to take pictures before they closed but nobody seems to be interested when the Thieves Market at Sungei Road is closed?

Seems that everyone's happy to see the flea market go into history quietly....

@Spikes, I totally agree with you! Lush tall aquatic plants (e.g. cattail, reed) could be used as natural barriers instead.

@Spikes, I totally agree with you! Lush tall aquatic plants (e.g. cattail, reed) could be used as natural barriers instead.

That's what they did for Kallang River at Bishan Park.

There's gravel at the bottom of the "river", but its all covered with dark brown algae, making it look like mud. :lol:

Funny that so many people rushed to the historical KTM railway stations to take pictures before they closed but nobody seems to be interested when the Thieves Market at Sungei Road is closed?

Seems that everyone's happy to see the flea market go into history quietly....

Read that it will not be closed, but they will have to jostle into a smaller space...guess it just happens that the DTL3 and Rochor Canal project are coming on board at the same time...the open air market will be really squeezed and wonder how attractive it will be with the ongoing works...

public emotions are easily stirred..the media just need to put a nostalgic twist on the Thieves Market and everyone will be flocking there to snap pics and rant about its demise...and in the case of the Railway Station, it will still remain and open in future anyway

I really wonder if everyone is really that passionate about their heritage lol

Read that it will not be closed, but they will have to jostle into a smaller space...guess it just happens that the DTL3 and Rochor Canal project are coming on board at the same time...the open air market will be really squeezed and wonder how attractive it will be with the ongoing works...

public emotions are easily stirred..the media just need to put a nostalgic twist on the Thieves Market and everyone will be flocking there to snap pics and rant about its demise...and in the case of the Railway Station, it will still remain and open in future anyway

I really wonder if everyone is really that passionate about their heritage lol

The free hawking zone allocated is only about one third of the previous flea market. It looks very small now.

I was there yesterday (Sunday, when it was supposed to be bustling) and saw almost nobody selling anything. Some old folks were seem mingling around but hardly any stalls doing business .... and there were talks of finding a new place to move to.

The government had on several occasions tried chasing them away so this time they might just succeed.

Updates on PUB's Active Beautiful and Clean Waters programme.


More areas come under PUB's Active Beautiful and Clean Waters programme
Posted: 16 November 2012 2030 hrs

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/components/display_image.php?id=483140
Kallang River along Bishan Park has been transformed into a natural river that meanders through the park.

SINGAPORE: Three more vicinities are set to be transformed by next year under the PUB's Active Beautiful and Clean Waters programme.

Environment and Water Resources Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said 20 different vicinities have already benefited from the programme which began in 2006.

The programme aims to transform canals and drains into streams and lakes, and serves as focal community points.

One of the projects that will be completed next year includes the Sungei Ulu Pandan project.

Mr Christopher De Souza, MP for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC, said: "Would it be possible for the ministry to allow the residents and Sunset Way residents that fall within my ward to actually go very close to the water to learn about biodiversity, and to have river life extend to them proximately, and not just visually."

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan replied: "The whole idea of making it attractive and beautiful is to give access. The only caveat I would put is the issue of safety. So for instance if you would recall in the Bishan canal which was converted into a river because it's specially designed to be low-lying and people have access and can even walk across the river.

"However, during times of intense storms, the water can spread out very rapidly along the sides, that's why we've got various alarm systems and markings on the grounds in order to emphasise safety. We have to get a balance between access and public safety."

- CNA/de


source: CNA (http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1237684/1/.html)