Singapore River Currents: Dangers of Illegal Fishing & Staying Safe

Staying Safe While Fishing in Singapore’s Rivers: A Guide Following the Kallang River Incident

SINGAPORE – Recent events, including the tragic death of a 13-year-aged boy who fell into the Kallang River while fishing, have brought renewed attention to the safety of angling in Singapore’s waterways. While fishing remains a popular recreational activity, understanding the potential dangers – and adhering to safety guidelines – is crucial. This article examines the risks associated with fishing in non-designated areas, the factors influencing river currents, and how anglers can stay safe while enjoying this pastime.

The incident, which occurred near Upper Boon Keng Road on February 25th, highlighted the risks present even when rivers appear calm. The boy, Muhammed Qayyim Daniel Putra Rosli, was with friends when he fell in, and his body was recovered the following night. The location was not a designated fishing area, according to the national water agency, PUB. This underscores the importance of utilizing approved fishing spots and being aware of potential hazards.

Understanding River Currents and Hidden Dangers

Even seemingly placid rivers can harbor strong and unpredictable currents. Associate Professor Edward Park, a principal investigator at NTU’s Earth Observatory of Singapore, explained that underlying flows and localized currents can exist, particularly near bends or structures within the river. “As a general safety measure, members of the public should avoid entering rivers, especially during or after rainfall, as conditions can change more quickly than they appear,” he added.

This is because river discharge and current speeds can remain elevated for hours after rainfall ceases, even under clear skies. Rainwater is temporarily stored on surfaces before draining into waterways, creating a delayed effect. In Singapore’s highly urbanized environment, efficient drainage systems can rapidly increase flow speed. Hydrology expert Simone Fatichi from the NUS Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering emphasized that even shallow water moving at speeds of just one to two meters per second can make it nearly impossible to swim against the current.

Beyond the speed of the water, other factors contribute to the danger. Floating debris, washed downstream from upstream drainage networks, can create obstacles and pose a risk of injury. Submerged objects, like tree branches, can also trap or injure individuals. Embankments along rivers can be slippery and uneven, increasing the risk of falls.

Designated Fishing Areas and Safety Measures

PUB currently designates 15 locations across Singapore’s reservoirs and waterways as approved fishing areas, including Marina Reservoir and Rochor Canal. These areas are selected based on several safety considerations. They avoid locations with high water activity and are positioned at a safe distance from busy footpaths to prevent injuries to passersby. Crucially, most designated areas feature infrastructure designed to enhance angler safety, such as fishing decks and safety railings. You can find more information about fishing guidelines on the PUB website.

Even though, some anglers still choose to fish outside of these designated zones. One reason cited is the high fishing pressure at legal sites, leading some to seek less crowded spots. Others point to infrastructure limitations at certain designated areas, such as difficult access for retrieving catches.

What PUB Advises

PUB provides specific guidelines for safe fishing practices:

• Fish only in designated areas, identified by signage and/or blue safety railings.
• Maintain a safe distance from high-traffic footpaths.
• Use only artificial bait in reservoirs and waterways.
• Properly dispose of unwanted fishing lines, hooks, and other rubbish in litter bins.
• Be aware of signs of strong currents, such as murky water and increased floating debris.

A Recent Tragedy and Ongoing Concerns

The Kallang River incident isn’t an isolated case. Locals have observed children scaling railings to fish in non-permitted areas, despite the presence of “No Fishing” signs and safety barriers. This highlights the need for continued public awareness and enforcement of safety regulations. As one resident, Mr Vinod Rai Sharma, noted, “Kids are the most vulnerable. they don’t understand the danger.”

The incident also prompted discussion about the adequacy of safety measures at existing fishing spots. Some anglers have pointed out issues with infrastructure at certain locations, making it difficult to retrieve catches or navigate the area safely.

What Happens Next?

Following the Kallang River incident, PUB reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety around waterways. While no immediate changes to designated fishing areas were announced, the agency continues to monitor conditions and assess potential improvements. Ongoing public education campaigns aim to raise awareness of the risks associated with fishing in non-designated areas and promote responsible angling practices.

The focus remains on encouraging anglers to utilize approved fishing locations and adhere to safety guidelines to prevent future tragedies. The agency also emphasizes that Singapore’s drains and canals are designed for stormwater conveyance and are not intended for recreational use, particularly during and after rainfall.