Singapore undertakes subsea land reclamation over 800 hectares at Pulau Tekong, marking the nation's initial underground project aimed at reducing sand consumption.
Singapore's Pulau Tekong Reclamation Project: A Sustainable Approach to Land Development
Singapore's Pulau Tekong reclamation project, currently underway, is set to revolutionise the city-state's landscape. This ambitious project, a joint endeavour by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) and the national water agency (PUB), aims to reclaim 800 hectares of land below sea level - a first for Singapore.
The reclaimed site at Pulau Tekong, located 1.2m below mean sea level, will be a significant addition to Singapore's mainland, providing space for housing and amenities. The project's innovative design includes a robust drainage network, pumping stations, and stormwater ponds, all designed to manage intense rainfall and rising seas, demonstrating Singapore's commitment to climate resilience.
Empoldering, a technique that reduces sand use by nearly half compared to conventional reclamation, has been employed in the Pulau Tekong project. This approach has allowed for the reuse of more than 10 million cubic metres of clay from the project's stormwater pond, resulting in substantial savings.
Advanced infrastructure for managing water and dyke conditions is also a key feature of the Pulau Tekong reclamation project. PUB has installed more than 170 closed-circuit television cameras and 260 sensors for real-time monitoring of water levels, water quality, and dyke conditions at the reclaimed site. This comprehensive monitoring system ensures the project's safety and sustainability.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong recently visited the reclaimed site at Pulau Tekong, underscoring the importance of this project to Singapore's future. The project, part of the city-state's long-term climate resilience and land-use strategy, will be completed in 2025, after which it will be handed over to PUB and the Ministry of Defence.
The Pulau Tekong reclamation project is a testament to Singapore's commitment to sustainable land reclamation practices. By demonstrating the successful application of innovative techniques and advanced infrastructure, this project sets a new standard for land reclamation projects worldwide. Final works at the site are expected to be completed later in 2025, marking a significant milestone in Singapore's ongoing quest for sustainable urban development.
