Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Pipe Burst Incidents

Question:

Dr Lim Wee Kiak: To ask the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) since 2024, how many burst pipe incidents have been reported; (b) what is the average response time for such incidents; (c) what support measures are available to help affected businesses mitigate losses and ensure continuity of operations; and (d) what steps are in place to enhance the resilience of Singapore’s water and other underground infrastructure against extreme weather events.

Answer:

1 In 2024, PUB received reports of and repaired 267 pipe leaks in its water pipe network. This translates to 4.5 leaks per 100 km of water pipe per year, which places PUB amongst the top-performing utilities globally. 

2 In more than 90% of pipe leak incidents, PUB is able to repair the water pipe without interruption to water supply. Where water supply is interrupted, PUB arrives on-site within two hours and is typically able to restore water supply within four hours. During such interruptions, PUB offers several forms of support to households and businesses, including (i) deploying mobile water wagons and distributing water bags; (ii) laying temporary connection hoses to bring in alternate water supply; and (iii) communicating regular updates on pipe repair status and expected restoration times. In rare instances where there is property damage, PUB will provide additional assistance in the recovery effort, such as helping with the cleaning up.

3 For leaks from privately-owned water pipes, the owner or managing agent is responsible for isolating the leak and carrying out repairs. If they are unable to do so, PUB will assist to shut the water supply to the premises to facilitate their repair works. The owner or managing agent is similarly expected to provide temporary water supply and update affected households or businesses. Where required, PUB is prepared to provide technical advice and temporary water supply to the owner or managing agent.

4 PUB has a comprehensive leak management programme to prevent, detect and pre-empt leaks in its water pipe network. First, to prevent leaks, PUB periodically assesses the condition of its pipes and proactively renews at-risk and leak-prone pipes. This is informed by data collected from PUB’s surveys and assessments. Second, PUB monitors the water pipe network with sensors to detect leaks early and responds promptly to minimise disruption. Third, where there are construction works nearby, PUB requires the developer and contractor to put in place monitoring measures to reduce the risk of pipe damage. 

5 We are taking steps to ensure that our water infrastructure is adequately protected against extreme weather events. PUB has worked with BCA to ensure that standards for slope protection are in place to extreme weather, to ensure that our canals and drains are guarded against the risk of slope failure and blockage. In addition, PUB has recently called a consultancy study to assess the stability of slopes adjacent to our major waterways.

6 PUB is also stepping up its monitoring of its water pipe network after extreme weather events. Where PUB is alerted to incidents of soil movements following such weather events, PUB will carry out additional leak surveys of the water pipes in the vicinity to detect and arrest any developing leaks.