Singapore's battle against climate change-induced flooding: A complex challenge.
In the face of unpredictable rainfall patterns, Singapore's national water agency, PUB, is taking a multi-pronged approach to tackle flash floods. While investing in drainage infrastructure remains crucial, PUB's CEO, Ong Tze-Ch'in, emphasizes the need to build societal resilience.
"We've realized that preventing every flood is simply not feasible," Ong says. With climate change bringing more intense and frequent storms, Singapore must adapt.
The recent monsoon surges in January, which caused a three-hour flood in Jalan Seaview, highlight the urgency. Most flash floods here typically last an hour or less, but with climate change, longer durations are becoming more common.
Ong believes that public mindset is key. "We want people to expect and prepare for flash floods, not be shocked by them."
PUB's strategy includes investing in specialized flood-proofing infrastructure, like the recently completed Syed Alwi Pumping Station, which diverts storm water to prevent overflow.
But it's not just about infrastructure. Residents, businesses, and commuters in flood-prone areas must stay vigilant, monitoring weather forecasts and flood alerts. PUB uses various channels, including Telegram and vehicle on-board units, to keep the public informed.
PUB is also exploring innovative solutions, such as using mobile phone signals to predict intense rainfall and integrating flood alerts into Google Maps.
"Rainfall can interfere with cellular signals, and we can use this interference to estimate rainfall intensity," Ong explains.
PUB's annual flood awareness campaign, launched in 2024, educates the public on precautions. "If you're a homeowner, put up barriers. If you're a commuter, adjust your plans. Avoid walking or driving into heavy rain and potential flood areas," Ong advises.
Climate change also poses a threat to Singapore's water supply. Two of Singapore's four main water sources, imported water from Malaysia and local reservoirs, are vulnerable to rainfall fluctuations. The agreement for imported water expires in 2061, and space for new reservoirs is limited.
Ong highlights NEWater and desalination as more climate-resilient sources. NEWater, produced by recycling used water, is expected to play a larger role in meeting the country's water demand, which is projected to nearly double by 2065.
However, households need to reduce water use to meet the national target of 130 liters per person per day by 2030. In 2024, daily water consumption per resident was 142 liters, slightly higher than the previous year.
Ong identifies three trends that make meeting this target challenging: hotter weather, working from home, and smaller household sizes.
"Flexible work arrangements and rising temperatures increase water use at home. We're pushing towards the 130-liter target, but it's an uphill battle," he says.
With rising water demand and the need for more infrastructure, water prices are expected to increase. Ong emphasizes the importance of cost recovery to invest in future water infrastructure.
"We take a long-term perspective. Water price increases are necessary to ensure we can continue investing in the infrastructure we need to adapt to climate change," he concludes.
