Construction of Wildlife Exclusion Fences between Central Catchment Nature Reserve and Lorong Asrama Forest in View of Enhancing Ecological Connectivity

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Government can share the rationale for constructing wildlife exclusion fences between Central Catchment Nature Reserve and Lorong Asrama forest, given the commitment to enhancing ecological connectivity in the North West Region; and (b) whether the implementation of alternative connectivity measures, such as rope bridges and culverts, can be considered for this site.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: To mitigate vehicular-wildlife collisions, the National Parks Board has announced earlier this year that it would extend exclusion fences to nine additional locations in Singapore, including major roads along areas such as the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. These locations were identified to be higher-risk areas based on past incidents.

Developed in consultation with wildlife groups and academic experts, the exclusion fences also serve to guide wildlife towards alternative crossings, such as the Eco-Link @ BKE and existing culverts. This makes it safer for wildlife to move between green spaces.