The pumps are ready for action.

The construction of the mammoth Deep Tunnel Sewerage System (DTSS), Singapore's superhighway for used water, has seen good progress.

Following the completion of the tunnels in 2005, the influent pumping station comprising some of the deepest pumps was completed in 2006. Lying 50 metres underground, these pumps are part of the pumping station of the Changi Water Reclamation Plant which is a key component of the DTSS.

Speaking at the completion ceremony on 28 August 2006, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, said, "The completion of the DTSS pumping station commemorates not just another milestone in the development of the DTSS but also another step forward in our journey to ensure long-term sustainability of our water resources."

The pumping station, together with the deep tunnel sewers and the outfall completed in 2005, marks the completion of this mammoth conveyance system. The system is linked to the network of public and private sewers that collect used water from homes and buildings.

Unlike some other countries, Singapore has separate networks to collect used water and rainwater. This reduces the amount of pollution that gets into the waterways and helps ensure that the quality of the water harnessed from the catchments is of good quality.

All used water channelled through the DTSS will be treated at the Changi Water Reclamation Plant, which will be fully operational in 2008. The bulk of the treated used water will then be further purified at the NEWater factories.

With the completion of the DTSS, Singaporeans can continue to enjoy a first-class used-water infrastructure for years to come.

By YONG WEI HIN