SPILLAGE FROM REFUSE TRUCKS (Prevention of)

Dr Koh Lam Son asked the Minister for the Environment whether he is aware of the stench on roads caused by sullage water spilled from his Ministry's trucks and what measures he will take to prevent it.

The Minister for the Environment (Dr Ahmad Mattar): Mr Speaker, Sir, I am aware of the spillage of sullage water from some of my Ministry's refuse trucks. But the number of complaints received on drippings from the refuse trucks is low. Nevertheless, this problem is closely watched and defects are rectified immediately.

Sir, our refuse collection vehicles are provided with devices such as compactors and tailgate seals to ensure that there is no spillage. The vehicles undergo regular preventive maintenance and are checked for water-tightness, amongst other things, when they are called in to the workshop. The workers have also been advised and trained to do their jobs better.

Sir, I would like to assure the Member for Telok Blangah and also this House that every effort is being made to provide an efficient refuse removal service.

Dr Koh Lam Son (Telok Blangah): Sir, is it not possible perhaps to wash these trucks before they leave for the road?

Dr Ahmad Mattar: Mr Speaker, Sir, the trucks are washed before they leave the Environmental Health Offices and after they return.