Jun 2022: Drone Survey and other shores surveyed

Thanks to Kelvin Yong for surveying with the drone during the recent low spring tides. 

He captured views of sea turtle, sharks and large fishes!

Terumbu Semakau still doing well

On a scorching morning, a small team surveys this submerged reef right next to Singapore's only landfill and near the petrochemical plants on Pulau Bukom (producing emissions that resembles clouds).

The corals are doing well, we see common reef life and the seagrass situation seems to be very slowly improving.

Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal corals are still alive!

Today, a small team returns to survey the amazing coral reef that has settled naturally on the seawalls of Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. We last surveyed this shore in 2013. 

Besides the amazing corals at the Ferry Terminal, there were lush seagrasses on the shore next to the Ferry terminal with all kinds of animals. We also encountered otters, saw a stonefish, and a large ray.

Pulau Sekudu looking great!

Well before dawn, we survey one of our favourite shores, Pulau Sekudu or Frog Island that lies just off Chek Jawa on Pulau Ubin.

Today, I saw signs of dugong in this tiny island's lush seagrass meadows. Sponges, corals, sea fans seem to be doing well, and the Knobbly sea stars seem to be reproducing. We also saw a stonefish!

Lost Coast with signs of dugong!

This vast sandy shore is a habitat that is now rare in Singapore (thus 'lost') and home to animals that we seldom see on our other shores. This reclaimed shore in Changi East was in the past, remote and difficult to reach; thus 'lost' in yet another sense. As development started in the area, it became strictly off limits without a permit. We surveyed with permission kindly arranged by NParks.

Today, I was delighted to see seagrasses AND dugong feeding trails on the northern corner of the vast shore.

"Space for our Dreams": Lots of land reclamation still planned

Plans for massive reclamation remain in place. From Pasir Ris to Changi to East Coast Park all the way to Marina Bay. And the Southern Islands too. And the Southern Islands too. Here's my takeaways from URA's "Space for our Dreams" Long-Term Plan Review exhibition.

URA is seeking feedback on these plans. Send your feedback here.