Singapore replaced concrete drain with river; biodiversity rose 30%
Singapore successfully transformed a concrete drainage canal into a naturalized river, resulting in a 30% increase in local biodiversity. The project, part of the ABC Waters Programme, demonstrates the ecological benefits of replacing urban concrete infrastructure with natural waterways.
Why it matters
This case study provides a scalable model for urban planners worldwide to improve flood management while simultaneously restoring urban ecosystems.
In 2012, Singapore turned a major urban drainage channel into natural-like river. The project was part of Singapore's Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters Programme.According to Water Online, a 2.7-km section of the Kallang River at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park was transformed into a 3-km winding waterway, with landscaped banks, plants and a flood plain.The work was carried out between 2009 and 2011. Instead of keeping the river a straight concrete canal, meandering shape was introduced. Plants, rocks, natural materials and civil engineering methods were also used to soften its edges. The aim was not only to change how the waterway looked but also to improve its ecological condition and manage storm water.As a result, the river created space for plants and animals. A 2012 project announcement said the new river had recorded a 30% increase in biodiversity even before construction was completed.
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