Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Maintenance of Drains

Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Maintenance of Drains by Minister Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment

Question:

Mr Lim Biow Chuan: To ask the Minister for Sustainability (a) in the past two years, how many reports regarding damaged or choked drains has PUB received; and (b) whether PUB has a systematic plan to expedite repairs on damaged drains to prevent mosquito breeding.

Answer:

1. PUB received about 600 feedback per year in the past two years regarding damaged or choked public drains, most of which were minor that did not impact the performance of drains to convey stormwater. 

2. To maintain Singapore's vast network of drains, canals and waterways, PUB works closely with NEA on regular cleaning and structural maintenance.

3. PUB regularly inspects and upkeeps public drains. Drains that show structural defects will be repaired promptly, with repair works prioritised based on the drain conditions. Drains beyond repair will be scheduled for upgrading through PUB's drainage improvement programme, with interim repair promptly carried out to ensure their performance.

4. NEA undertakes the regular cleaning of public drains. Debris, litter and shed leaves in the drains are removed promptly to allow stormwater to flow freely and to prevent pockets of stagnant water from forming. This prevents drains from becoming potential mosquito breeding habitats. Drains are also flushed periodically to remove silt.

5. PUB and NEA will continue to keep our drains, canals and waterways clean and in good condition, to protect Singaporeans from floods and vector-borne diseases like dengue.