Singapore reveals plans for a massive reclamation project known as “Long Island” in response to sea-level rise due to climate change.
The initiative, announced by Singapore’s Minister for National Development, Mr. Desmond Lee, intends to create a new water reservoir. The concept, introduced by the PM, Mr Lee Hsien Loong, in 2019, integrates coastal protection with reclamation plans.
The Long Island project consists of three sectors of reclaimed land off East Coast Park, and is anticipated to be about twice the size of Marina Bay. According to Mr. Desmond Lee, the new island will form a freshwater reservoir, boosting Singapore’s water supply and turning it into the country’s 18th reservoir.
Facing the existential risk of rising sea levels due to its low-lying nature, Singapore has been actively exploring countermeasures. The country’s vulnerability comes from the fact that one-third of the island is less than five meters above mean sea level.
To prevent flooding, the project includes construction of two large tidal gates and pumping stations. The Long Island plan not only serves as a climatic shield but also promises opportunities for housing, job creation, and the development of amenities.
It is noteworthy that the planning and implementation will take decades. As Mr. Lee mentioned, we are still “at a very early stage in this journey”, and public consultations regarding design and masterplanning are expected in early 2024.
While it is clear that the project is in its early stages and requires extensive planning, this Long Island project has certainly gathered interests among communities and netizens since its announcement on 28 Nov 2023.
