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NewsAsia, 13 Jan 05 Public to be allowed to canoe at MacRitchie Reservoir By Julia Ng SINGAPORE : Members of the public will soon be allowed to canoe at MacRitchie Reservoir and there will be no need to get permission to do so. Presently, the green light is only given to schools and sports groups, like the national kayaking squad. Releasing its plans, the Environment and Water Resources Ministry said its challenge ahead is to sustain and enhance Singapore's clean and healthy environment, as well as a safe and secure water supply for all. At the same time, the Ministry also wants Singaporeans to value and enjoy their water resources. So the public would soon be able to canoe at MacRitchie Reservoir, a move welcomed by many. "Personally, I think it's a good idea to allow the public to canoe in the reservoir because right now all the (People's Association) sites are quite far away, in East Coast or Pasir Ris. People in the west or central have to travel very far. So by opening up MacRitchie, which is in the central, I think it's very good," said one jogger at MacRitchie. Despite initial concerns about opening up the reservoirs to water sports, public feedback has found that 80 percent of the people actually support the idea. In fact, many feel that this is a good chance to educate the public on greater appreciation of Singapore's water resources. The Singapore Canoe Federation, which is gearing up to run canoeing lessons and a commercial fleet of kayaks at MacRitchie Reservoir, says it will also spread the word about caring for Singapore's water resources. Said Sylvester Sim of the Singapore Canoe Federation, "In the past we do have what we called coastal clean-ups. It's done on a kayak, done with schools to get them to help clean up our coastal areas. And perhaps that idea can be brought over to the reservoir as well and getting people to do the clean up as well; and at the same time to get people to keep our water, environment clean as well. He added, "We have demarcated a certain area for beginners, the public to use. We'll list down certain do's and don'ts, and again it's more of the public education in taking care and being responsible to the water resources rather than enforcing. But of course we'll have people around watching; and if we spot certain people abusing the water here then we may have to step in and stop them." The Ministry also plans to emphasise community participation and ownership to encourage Singaporeans to take greater responsibility for their environment, while they enjoy the clean air, water and facilities. The MInistry has also said the air quality here is one of the best among global cities. The recycling rate has reached 47 percent, with recycling efforts gaining support in schools, public and private housing estates. - CNA links Related articles on Re-creation in our wild places |
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