Company fined $4,000 for placing objects in public drain

Company fined $4,000 for placing objects in public drain

SINGAPORE - A landscaping company was fined $4,000 yesterday for placing objects in a public drain along Thomson Road, where its office is located.

A PVC pipe, a submersible pump and plywood were found in the drain by officers from the Public Utilities Board (PUB) on March 4.

For this, Hawaii Landscape Pte Ltd was charged under the Sewerage and Drainage Act for placing objects in the public drain without approval. The maximum fine for such an offence is $20,000.

PUB said in a statement today that the function of public drains is to convey rainwater quickly during storms, and that they should be kept free-flowing at all times.

It added: "The placement of any objects in or across public drains, without prior approval, is not allowed as this will interfere with rainwater flow, and may result in flash floods in the event of intense storms."

To report such acts, the public can call PUB's 24-hour call centre 1800 284 6600, preferably with the date, time, and location of the incidents. Photos and videos that can help with investigations are also welcome.

huizhen@sph.com.sg

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