Coastal Protection Measures Proposed for Changi and Greater Southern Waterfront

In order to safeguard low-lying regions in Changi and the Greater Southern Waterfront from potential flooding, a recently released study has suggested implementing coastal protection measures to create a unified defense line. The national water agency, PUB, announced that construction is expected to commence in the 2030s, featuring three coastal barriers that will connect Sentosa, Pulau Brani, and the mainland, along with modifications to the Marina Barrage and elevated coastal structures.

Additionally, the study advocates for setback measures at locations like Changi Beach Park, which would involve placing coastal defenses further inland. This strategy aims to maintain beach access while limiting negative impacts on local biodiversity. The site-specific study focusing on the City-East Coast region began in 2021 and had a budget of S$18 million (approximately US$14 million). This area encompasses significant locations, including the Greater Southern Waterfront, East Coast, and Changi.

Moving forward, PUB, alongside pertinent government bodies, plans to delve into more precise studies that will outline engineering designs for these recommended measures and carry out assessments of their environmental impact. The protective initiatives designed for the Greater Southern Waterfront and Changi are intended to enhance existing coastal defense strategies at East Coast, thereby ensuring a continuous line of protection against rising sea levels.

Notably, the recently announced "Long Island" project is part of this effort, aiming to create an enclosed water body in front of East Coast Park to act as a barrier against coastal erosion for the mainland. During the launch of the Coastal Protection Exhibition at VivoCity, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong highlighted that, unlike larger nations, Singapore cannot simply retreat inland. He emphasized the critical importance of protecting the country's coastlines and acknowledged that while coastal protection is a challenging and long-term task, it represents a vital investment in the nation's future safety and resilience, much like public housing and infrastructure.