Singapore Takes Major Steps to Protect Wildlife and Motorists

In a groundbreaking initiative, Singapore's National Parks Board (NParks) is set to roll out new exclusion fencing across nine locations, aiming to drastically reduce dangerous vehicle-wildlife collisions. This effort builds upon the success of existing barriers already installed along Mandai Road and the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE).

Encouraging Results from Existing Measures

Speaking on social media, Minister for National Development Desmond Lee shared that early results from established fencing have been promising, with significant decreases in roadkill incidents involving sambar deer and wild boar. “These measures show a downward trend in wildlife fatalities from 2023 to 2024,” he stated.

Strategic Location for New Fencing

The new fencing will target high-risk areas identified from past vehicle-wildlife collision incidents, particularly near major roads adjacent to the Bukit Timah and Central Catchment Nature Reserves. NParks aims to complete these installations by 2026, erecting around 1.8 meters high barriers specifically designed to keep larger mammals from jumping over.

Innovative Features for Enhanced Safety

To further prevent smaller animals like pangolins from accessing dangerous roadways, NParks will incorporate smooth panels at the base of the fences. “In a densely populated city like Singapore, we must balance urban development with ecological sustainability,” Mr. Lee emphasized.

A History of Safety Measures

Over the years, NParks has implemented various safety measures, such as road closures, wildlife crossings like the Eco-Link@BKE, and animal detection systems, alongside collaborations with conservation groups to monitor roadkill incidents. These combined efforts have led to a notable decrease in wildlife fatalities.

Ongoing Monitoring and Community Awareness

NParks continues to track the effectiveness of these measures to determine future strategies, ensuring that wildlife can safely navigate between green spaces. Meanwhile, they urge motorists to stay vigilant on roads that run adjacent to wooded areas, encouraging safe driving practices.

Get Involved: Reporting Wildlife Incidents

Members of the public are reminded to avoid handling injured wildlife and to report any urgent situations to NParks' 24-hour Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600.

As Singapore steps up its mission to harmonize urban life with nature, this initiative serves as a crucial reminder of our collective responsibility towards wildlife conservation and road safety.