In light of a recent incident near the Tuas Second Link, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has issued a advisory recommending the public avoid swimming and other primary water contact activities.
The warning arose after a chemical tank, carrying propylene glycol, fell into the sea following a collision between two heavy tankers on the Malaysian side of the bridge on 24 July 2024.
Safety Measures and Monitoring
- NEA asserts that the other tanker remains intact, with no chemical spill reported on the bridge.
- Propylene glycol is classified as a non-hazardous, biodegradable substance commonly found in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
- Though safe for general use, the chemical could lead to low dissolved oxygen levels in the Lim Chu Kang fish farming zone.
Precautions for Fish Farms
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has been alerted to ensure fish farms in the area remain on high alert and have contingency plans ready. They are instructed to notify the SFA of any unusual fish or water conditions.
Desalination Plants Unaffected
NEA assured the public that Singapore’s desalination plants are currently not affected by the incident. The Public Utilities Board (PUB) is closely monitoring the seawater intake to ensure safety.
Incident Background
The accident was reported to Malaysia’s Iskandar Puteri Fire and Rescue Station around 5:40 PM, with reports indicating that the impact involved a moving tanker colliding with a stationary one. Despite the scary visuals caught in a video, both agencies confirmed no contamination occurred at the site.
Interestingly, just the day before, NEA conducted a chemical spill exercise in partnership with Malaysia’s Department of Environment, underscoring the importance of preparedness in environmental incidents.
As traffic was affected at the Tuas Checkpoint due to this incident, authorities have urged motorists to remain patient as they manage the situation.