Repairing Nearly 100 Potholes in Tanah Merah Amid Heavy Rainfall
SINGAPORE: The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has swiftly responded to reports of potholes along Tanah Merah Coast Road following a recent monsoon surge, with nearly 100 potholes being repaired as of Sunday (Jan 12).
Responding to Road Defects
LTA was alerted to the potholes on Jan 10 and Jan 11, taking immediate action by applying temporary patches before completing permanent repairs on Sunday. The surge in potholes comes amidst a wet start to the year, with 776 potholes detected across Singapore during the same period in 2024.
Meteorological Service Singapore described the recent monsoon surge as one of the most intense events in recent years, bringing heavy showers and thunder. The surge, which lasted from Jan 10 to Monday, led to islandwide average daily total rainfall ranging from 44.4mm to 120.2mm.
Understanding Pothole Formation
Potholes form due to cracks in the road surface that widen as water seeps in, exacerbated by heavy rainfall. LTA emphasizes the importance of regular inspection, maintenance, and resurfacing to prevent potholes. The agency has also adopted pre-emptive maintenance strategies to address road defects before they escalate.
The decreasing trend in pothole detection over the years indicates progress in road maintenance efforts, with 3,013 potholes reported in 2024 compared to 9,702 in 2021. Residents are encouraged to report road defects through the MyTransport.SG app or OneService app to facilitate prompt repairs.
In conclusion, the recent repairs in Tanah Merah highlight the importance of proactive road maintenance to ensure road safety and prevent disruptions caused by potholes. By staying vigilant and reporting defects promptly, residents can contribute to maintaining well-maintained roads for all road users.