Singapore, an island city-state known for its innovative solutions to urban challenges, is once again demonstrating its adaptability with changes to its water management strategy. As the demand for water in the country continues to rise, the nation is taking strategic steps to ensure a sustainable water supply for its citizens.
The Rising Demand for Water in Singapore
Singapore’s daily water demand currently stands at about 430 million gallons a day, enough to fill 782 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Moreover, with limited land to collect and store rainwater, Singapore has faced challenges like droughts, floods, and water pollution in the early years of nation-building.
In response to these challenges, the city-state has built a robust and diversified supply of water from four different sources: local catchment water, imported water, NEWater (high-grade reclaimed water), and desalinated water. This system, known as the Four National Taps, has been a cornerstone of Singapore’s water management strategy.
The Cost of Water in Singapore
Furthermore, in response to rising costs of producing and supplying water, Singapore plans to raise water prices by 18% over two phases by 2025. Moreover, the price of water for most households will increase from S$2.74 for every 1,000 litres used to S$3.24. This increase reflects external cost pressures such as increased energy, construction, and maintenance costs. Additionally, it takes into account the growing demand for water.
Source: PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency
Mitigating the Impact on Households
Understanding the potential burden this could place on households, particularly lower- and middle-income ones, the government has announced it will provide additional financial support.
Water Management Strategy
Despite the challenges, Singapore’s water management strategy has become a model for other countries. The nation’s National Water Agency, PUB, has been successful in managing its water resources, even as it draws up to 50% of its water supply from neighbouring countries.
The price increase is an important part of ensuring that PUB can continue to deliver a reliable water supply to residents. It will enable PUB to sustain its operations, build new assets, and renew existing ones.
Looking to the Future
As Singapore looks to the future, it continues to innovate and adapt. The city-state expects its water demand to double by 2065 and is preparing for this challenge with forward-thinking projects like the Deep Tunnel Sewerage System (DTSS).
The DTSS, a major infrastructure project, will channel wastewater from western Singapore to the upcoming Tuas Water Reclamation Plant. This system will not only help manage the city’s water supply but also free up land currently used by water infrastructure.
Through all these measures, Singapore is demonstrating its commitment to managing its water resources wisely. As the city-state adapts to changing circumstances, it continues to serve as a global model for sustainable water management.
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