INTEGRATION OF MAIN RESERVOIRS

Mdm Ho Geok Choo asked the Minister for the Environment, in view of our Prime Minister mentioning the possibility of joining our three main reservoirs into one huge catchment area, has his Ministry carried out an environmental impact study whether such a project should, in fact, be carried out.

Mr Lim Swee Say: Mr Speaker, Sir, I believe the Member is referring to PUB's plan to integrate the various reservoirs to enhance the overall yield of our local catchments. By linking up the various reservoirs, PUB will be able to balance any mismatch between the amount of rainfall collected in the catchment areas and their respective reservoir storage capacities. This linking-up is done through underground pipelines. PUB therefore does not expect any adverse environmental impact.

Mdm Ho Geok Choo: Has any study been done or carried out to examine possible implications of such a project?

Mr Lim Swee Say: Sir, as I have mentioned, the linking-up of the reservoirs will be done through underground pipelines and therefore there will not be any effect from the environmental or biodiversity angle. In that sense, I want to assure the House that the linking-up of the reservoirs through underground pipelines will have no adverse impact on the environment.

Mdm Ho Geok Choo: I would like to check with the Minister whether there will be any excavation work done to lay these pipes.

Mr Lim Swee Say: Sir, the answer is yes, it will be done just like the way we lay the various telecommunication cables, water pipes, the MRT tunnels and the DTSS. There is no difference. Measures will be taken to minimise inconvenience to the public.