Back in Nov. 2019, the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) stated that discoloured tap water was reported in some areas of the Basic Military Training Centre (BMTC) in Pulau Tekong.

MINDEF contacted the PUB to restore the potable water supply and said that it would launch an investigation.

On Feb. 3, Non-Constituency Member of Parliament (NCMP) Leon Perera asked why the water was discoloured and enquired on measures taken to reduce future risk.

Discolouration due to naturally occurring minerals

Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli replied that the discolouration was due to naturally-occurring minerals in the water.

These minerals settle and accumulate in the water supply network over time.

According to PUB's investigation, the minerals in the pipes serving the BMTC were "churned up", leading to the discolouration.

Water wagons provided temporary supplies of water to the servicemen on Pulau Tekong.

After the water supply network was flushed, the tap water became clear once more. Tests were carried out to ensure the water in the supply network was safe for consumption.

As a preventive measure, PUB will clean the water mains in Pulau Tekong during the first half of 2020, once there is a break in BMTC's training schedule.

Perera asked in a follow-up question whether Pulau Tekong's water supply is tested regularly to make sure it's up to the standard of mainland Singapore.

According to the Straits Times, Masagos stated that all drinking water is tested to ensure it keeps to standards, no matter where it's situated.

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Top image by HQ BMTC Media Team via PUB Facebook page.