Upper Peirce Reservoir

Gazing across the tranquil expanse of Upper Peirce Reservoir, can you sense the echoes of its past? Originally part of the Kallang River, this vital waterway became Singapore’s second reservoir in 1910, known then as the Kallang River Reservoir. It was later renamed Peirce Reservoir in 1922, honoring the contributions of Robert Peirce, a key figure in Singapore’s public works from 1901 to 1916. The growing needs of a rapidly developing Singapore led to the construction of a new dam upstream in 1975. This divided the original Peirce Reservoir, giving birth to the Upper and Lower Peirce Reservoirs we know today. Upper Peirce Reservoir, officially opened in 1977 by then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, spans an impressive 304 hectares. It boasts a capacity of 27.8 million cubic meters, a testament to its crucial role in Singapore’s water supply. Adjacent to the reservoir lies the serene Upper Peirce Reservoir Park. This five-hectare park offers a tranquil escape, its beauty enhanced by the surrounding secondary forest, a protected water catchment area. This lush vegetation, crucial to the reservoir’s health, adds another layer to the area’s rich tapestry of life. Beyond its practical purpose, Upper Peirce Reservoir holds a special allure for nature enthusiasts. The park is a haven for butterfly watchers. Common species like the Chocolate Pansy and Common Mormon flutter amongst the native flora. Occasionally, rarer species from the nearby Central Catchment Nature Reserve make a surprise appearance, adding a touch of magic to a visit. So, the next time you find yourself at Upper Peirce Reservoir, take a moment to appreciate its tranquil beauty. Remember the stories whispered by the wind through the trees, tales of transformation, progress, and the harmonious coexistence of nature and human ingenuity.