How is it involved in the construction of the Cross Island Line
Macritchie
Here are the key differences in the problems that arise from the two alignments, as summarised in the Environmental Impact Assessment report, in terms of the level of damage estimated.
We have only completed the first phase of the Environmental Impact Assessment which dealt with the baseline study in Central Catchment Nature Reserve and the assessment on environment impacts of proposed site investigation works in and around CCNR. The second phase of the EIA will cover the assessment of the construction and operation of the Cross Island Line, for the different possible underground alignments in or around CCNR and is projected to end by December 2016. However, from this table, it is not hard to draw to a conclusive statement that the route across the CCNR creates more detrimental effects to the surroundings.
It was reported that it would take another 2 more years to come out with the final decision. That is quite some time for us to use to our advantage and save our Mother Earth. Let us think about it. While there are more support for the first alignment as it is provides more cost benefits by saving an additional S$2 billion more, which is easily half the cost of building the MCE, we have to question is it really the right move?
The exploratory drillings alone would destroy irreplaceable and fragile stream systems, Singapore’s last swamp forests, and centuries-old trees. Can Singapore really afford to lose part of its natural heritage when we aim to be a green city, as well as, pledging to promote biodiversity conservation and its commitment to Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit?
Although Singapore has a small land area, the Singapore government has always worked on promoting the need to preserve heritage as well as green spaces. This should be no different. Especially more so for this case as it involves the oldest nature reserve. Nature reserves should essentially remain off limits to development, and be kept intact as sacred places with less tangible long-term benefits. There should not be any hesitations when it comes to saving our forests in the first place.
Two years is enough for us to create a difference and change the minds of our decision makers. But why wait any longer? Let your voice be heard today! Sign the petition now!
Alternatively, write to your MP to voice your concern. – Tell your Member of Parliament (MP) how you feel about the impact of the Cross Island Line on MacRitchie Forest. If you don’t know who your MP is, you can also write to your Minister of Transport Khaw Boon Wan. He can be contacted at
Minister of Transport, 460 Alexandra Road #39-00 PSA Building Singapore 11996
Finally, play your part and join in ongoing conservative efforts today!
