A metaphorical sentinel stands before us. The Labrador Viaduct. It is a testament to Singapore’s ever-evolving landscape. Let me tell you its story.
Labrador Park, where the Labrador Viaduct is situated, has a rich past. It began as a rocky coastline. Land reclamation transformed it. A seawall was also developed. Today, it is known as Tanjong Berlayer Beach Park. It serves as a historic, leisure, and nature park. In 2002, it was designated a nature reserve.
The name Labrador comes from “Labrador Villa.” This was the residence of George John Mansfield. He was a prominent ship chandler. He built his home in 1881.
The area was once Fort Pasir Panjang. It was a key part of Singapore’s coastal defenses. The British built it in the 19th century. It was one of eleven coastal artillery forts.
Fort Pasir Panjang was completed in 1878. It initially had two gun emplacements. It was twinned with Fort Siloso on Sentosa Island. They defended Keppel Harbour. This was then known as New Harbour. The emplacements were upgraded in 1892. They became a six-gun battery. Underground ammunition storage was added. Living spaces and tunnels were also constructed.
By 1938, war loomed. The Labrador Battery was further armed. It had two six-inch 37-ton guns. They could fire 102-pound shells almost 10 miles. Searchlights were installed. These could track enemy ships.
The guns were meant to face the sea. This was based on the belief that Singapore would be invaded by sea. But, they could be turned around. In February 1942, during World War II, they were. The Malay Regiment used them against the Japanese. This was during their 48-hour struggle. The fight took place in the Pasir Panjang/Alexandra Road area.
Dragon’s Tooth Gate was located just offshore from Labrador Park. It was a rock outcrop shaped like a tooth. It was known as Batu Berlayar in Malay. Europeans called it Lot’s Wife. It was believed to be a navigational marker. Admiral Zheng He used it. He travelled through the Singapore Straits. The British blew up the rock in 1848. This was to widen the Keppel Straits. In 2005, a replica was erected at Labrador Park. It stands 7.5 meters tall. Near the replica is a white obelisk. It marks the original Western Harbour limit.
Labrador Park has been developed as a nature reserve and historical site. In 1993, it was earmarked for conservation under the Green Plan. This led to changes in development plans. The Port of Singapore Authority helped protect marine life. Plans in 1996 included restoring bunkers and war relics. Signages were added. They displayed historical information.
After World War II, the tunnels were forgotten. Vegetation hid them. In 2001, officials rediscovered them. In 2005, two tunnels were opened to the public. They are part of the history trail. Machine gun posts and artillery pieces are still visible.
In 2008, the Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk was announced. It connects to Alexandra Road and Keppel Harbour. The 2.1-kilometer walk opened in January 2012. It includes the Alexandra Garden Trail and Bukit Chermin Boardwalk.
The Labrador Viaduct stands as a gateway. It connects us to the stories of the past. It reminds us of the resilience. It mirrors the transformation of Singapore.