PUB manages an extensive network of more than 7,000 km of public roadside drains and about 1,000 km of canals and waterways.
Regular cleansing of the canals, drains and waterways is carried out by the Department of Public Cleanliness (DPC), a unit set up within the National Environment Agency to integrate the cleaning functions of public areas.
To ensure that the drains are free-flowing and perform to their designed capacities, litter collection devices such as float booms, litter traps and gratings are placed in upstream drains at strategic locations and major rivers and canals. Contractors are deployed island-wide to carry out physical cleansing of drains and canals. The performance-based drain cleansing regime requires them to cleanse the drains regularly in order to meet specified cleanliness standards. PUB and DPC officers regularly audit the performance of the contractors and review the frequency of cleansing based on checks and public feedback.
Contractors will be penalised and paid less if the cleanliness of the drains under their charge are found to be lacking. Deductions of up to a maximum of 20% (as a percentage of the monthly payment due to the contractor) will be applied on the basis of the number of default points accumulated by the contractor for that month.
For feedback or enquires, members of the public can call the DPC hotline at 1800-600-3333 or email email@example.com.
PUB carries out structural repairs of drains, canals and waterways where necessary to ensure that they continue to function effectively. Minor works include repairing damaged drains due to wear and tear, damaged railings or drop-inlet-chamber gratings.
Major canals and waterways are also routinely desilted to keep them free-flowing. PUB carries out regular hydrographic surveys to monitor the level of silt in major canals and waterways.
Float boom with litter trap at major waterway
Replacement of damaged drop inlet chamber
Minor structural repair of public drain