PALMER ROAD KAMPONG (Steps to improve inadequate drainage)

Mr P. Govindaswamy asked the Minister for Law and National Development whether he is aware that the drainage in the kampong at Palmer Road is inadequate and if he will take steps to improve it.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for National Development (Mr Ho Cheng Choon) (for the Minister for Law and National Development): Mr Speaker, Sir, the kampong at Palmer Road is situated in a low-lying area, in some places more than 3 feet below road level, and is subject to tidal influence. As such, it is impossible to improve the drainage in the kampong, short of re-developing the whole kampong.

This area will be affected by the future extension of Shenton Way to the East Wharf Reclamation, and when that takes place the kampong may have to be removed.