Advisory issued as water quality downgrades raise health concerns
SINGAPORE: The National Environment Agency (NEA) has issued a public advisory against swimming and other primary contact water activities at Sembawang Beach and Pasir Ris Beach. This follows a downgrade in the annual beach grading exercise, which found elevated levels of Enterococcus (EC) bacteria in the waters at these locations.
NEA’s beach grading is based on World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, with water quality regularly sampled at seven popular recreational beaches in Singapore. While all beaches received a “Good” grade last year, this latest assessment downgraded Sembawang Park Beach and Pasir Ris Beach to “Fair.”
The agency has strongly advised the public to avoid swimming and other direct water contact activities at these beaches until further notice. Signages will be erected at both locations to inform beachgoers. Non-primary contact activities, such as sailing, kayaking, and canoeing, can continue as usual.
Other Beaches Maintain “Good” Status
East Coast Beach, Changi Beach, Punggol Beach, Seletar Island Beach, and Sentosa Beach have retained their “Good” grades, confirming their suitability for all recreational water activities.
Beachgoers are encouraged to monitor the Beach Short-term Water Quality Information (BSWI) updates available on the NEA website or the myENV app, as EC levels may occasionally rise even at beaches graded “Good.”
Investigating the Cause
NEA is collaborating with PUB, the National Parks Board (NParks), and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) to identify and address potential sources of the elevated bacteria levels. Initial findings suggest these sources are inland and not transboundary.
This advisory marks the first issued for Pasir Ris Beach since a similar alert from August 2008 to January 2012. Following an extensive study and mitigation measures, the beach was deemed safe for primary contact activities in February 2012.
Staying Informed
NEA urges beachgoers to stay updated on water quality and adhere to safety guidelines for their well-being. Monitoring real-time updates and avoiding primary contact with water at affected beaches are essential measures until further notice.
