Is it possible that Singapore’s largest offshore island holds a secret source of potable water? That source is the Pulau Tekong Reservoir. This reservoir sits on the northwest side of Pulau Tekong. It is part of the North-Eastern Islands planning area.
The Pulau Tekong Reservoir provides something essential. It supplies potable water to all the military facilities on the island. Access to Pulau Tekong and its reservoir is restricted.
Let’s dive into the story of how this reservoir came to be. Construction started in 1977. Engineers dammed Sungei Seminei. This river lies just east of Ladang Camp. By September 1979, the Pulau Tekong Reservoir and its waterworks were ready. Residents finally had piped potable water. The entire project cost $7.3 million.
The Pulau Tekong Reservoir proved its worth quickly. In 1981, a drought struck. While villagers on Pulau Ubin struggled to find water, Pulau Tekong residents were fine. Their wells never went dry.
In the early 1980s, many villagers were relocated. This was part of the government’s redevelopment plans. Even after their departure, the reservoir continued to serve the island. It became even more critical when military facilities were built.
Pulau Tekong itself has a fascinating past. It was once two islands: Pulau Tekong and Pulau Tekong Kechil. Land reclamation joined them in the mid-1990s. This created Singapore’s largest offshore island.
There are many tales about the name “Tekong”. Some say seafarers followed a star called “tekong” to reach the island. Another story tells of a pirate who was ditokong or had his hair cropped. Others say that the name is in memory of Teluk Tekong.
Pulau Tekong is still expanding thanks to land reclamation. This has been ongoing on its southern and northwestern coasts. Eventually, it will absorb surrounding islets like Pulau Tekong Kechil. Today, Pulau Tekong is primarily a military training base. It is home to the Basic Military Training Centre.
The Pulau Tekong Reservoir stands as a testament. It highlights Singapore’s commitment to self-sufficiency. Even on an island dedicated to military training, the basics must still be provided. This reservoir ensures that the soldiers have a reliable supply of potable water.