AIR POLLUTION IN INDUSTRIAL ESTATES (Pilot survey)

Inche Abdul Aziz Karim asked the Minister for Health if he will consider (a) undertaking immediately a pilot survey to determine the extent and degree of air pollution in Jurong and other selected industrial estates caused by noxious smoke, fumes, gases and dust from factories; (b) engaging an expert to carry out the survey; (c) making the report on the survey available to the House; (d) following up the pilot scheme with a complete survey of the problem of air pollution in the Republic; and (e) taking the necessary measures to eliminate air pollution as far as possible.

The Minister for Health (Mr Chua Sian Chin): Mr Speaker, Sir, my Ministry is aware of the increasing seriousness of the problem of air pollution especially in Jurong and other smaller industrial areas in Singapore. Further, the problem is enhanced by the increasing number of motor vehicles and other equipment utilising the internal combustion engine which can cause pollution of the atmosphere with the discharge of exhaust gases, especially carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide, on the main highways of the city.

Steps have already been taken for an expert on air pollution control from the World Health Organisation to be assigned to Singapore to help us look into this problem and to help in the development of an air pollution control section. Among the functions of the expert it is envisaged that he should -

(1) initiate studies to assess the present position of air pollution and the extent of the problem in Singapore;

(2) in pursuance of the first objective, to recommend the personnel and equipment necessary to set up a monitoring system, that is, a system for the measurement of the degree and extent of pollution;

(3) to recommend such remedial and/or preventive measures as may be feasible and necessary to cope with the situation;

(4) to advise on legislation for air-pollution control; and

(5) to assist in arrangements for specialised training for local personnel.

The expert from the World Health Organisation is expected to be in Singapore for a period of one month in the first instance in the near future. His report and recommendations will be made known to this House and the public if considered necessary and appropriate in due course.