All beaches at Sentosa have reopened for swimming and sea activities following the oil spill that occurred on June 14. The Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) confirmed that water quality has returned to normal levels through regular monitoring, ensuring the safety of visitors.
## Background
The oil spill on June 14 had significantly impacted Sentosa’s beaches, particularly Tanjong Beach. The SDC, along with various national agencies, undertook extensive clean-up and restoration efforts to address the environmental damage. The reopening of the beaches marks a significant milestone in these efforts, just in time for the school holidays.
## Tanjong Beach opened ahead of schedule
Tanjong Beach, the most heavily affected by the spill, has reopened earlier than expected. According to a media statement from the SDC, the reopening aligns with national guidelines, confirming that water quality at Tanjong Beach has stabilised. The SDC expressed its “heartfelt gratitude” to the workers, volunteers, island businesses, and partner agencies involved in the clean-up. “The successful reopening of Tanjong Beach ahead of the expected three months is a testament to the joint efforts and close collaboration among the various national agencies,” the SDC added.
## Grace Fu: A total of 3,750 tonnes of debris cleared
Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu, provided an update revealing that 3,750 tonnes of debris had been cleared from all public spaces affected by the oil spill. The clean-up involved 800 cleaning personnel and 2,300 volunteers. Fu stated, “More than 2,300 public-spirited volunteers joined clean-up activities coordinated by the Public Hygiene Council to help with the removal of residual tar balls and marine debris. While not everyone was eventually deployed in the clean-up, owing to overwhelming support, we deeply appreciate and want to thank everyone for their enthusiastic support.” She also mentioned that swimming and primary contact activities have resumed at some beaches, although the National Environment Agency (NEA) will continue to conduct water quality tests at the remaining affected beaches.
## Ongoing monitoring and future implications
The NEA’s website indicates that while beaches at Changi and Sentosa are now safe for water activities, advisories remain in place for East Coast and Pasir Ris beaches. The continued monitoring of water quality ensures that any residual effects of the oil spill are managed, safeguarding public health and the environment. The swift and effective response to the oil spill highlights the importance of community involvement and inter-agency collaboration in addressing environmental crises.
