Credit: PUB
Singapore, 23 June 2025 – National water agency PUB has completed the Syed Alwi Pumping Station (SAPS), enhancing flood protection for the low-lying Jalan Besar area and parts of Little India. Located next to Rochor Canal along Syed Alwi Road, the fully automated SAPS is designed to divert stormwater that falls over the area into an underground tank where it is then pumped into Rochor Canal during and after storms.
2 The SAPS, which serves a catchment area of about 30 hectares, forms part of PUB’s diverse stormwater management infrastructure to strengthen Singapore’s flood resilience as climate change brings about more frequent and intense rainfall.
3 Jalan Besar is a low-lying area that faced challenges with flooding from the 2000s to 2010s. In 2014, PUB upgraded drains along Syed Alwi Road and raised the road level to mitigate flooding in the area. This was followed by the widening and deepening of Rochor Canal in 2015 to increase its drainage capacity. These measures also enhanced flood protection in nearby areas such as Veerasamy Road, Hindoo Road and Desker Road.
4 In consideration of the many heritage buildings in the area, SAPS was conceptualised as an alternative solution to enhance flood resilience without the need for redevelopment works to raise ground levels. The SAPS takes up about 1,190 square metres underground, equivalent to one-sixth of a football field. During a storm, the infrastructure diverts stormwater from the upstream of Rochor Canal into an underground tank before pumping it to the downstream section of the canal, (refer to Annex B for details on how the SAPS functions).
Green wall (left) and green roof (right) at the SAPS facility
Credit: PUB
5 Above ground, the pumping station’s management facility including the control room is housed in a compact building. An area next to the above-ground facility is being developed into an open plaza and will provide a community space that is integrated with the nearby Build-To-Order development King George’s Heights currently under construction. The SAPS is designed to integrate greenery where possible, such as a green roof and green wall.
6 Even as PUB continues to invest in enhancing our drainage infrastructure to strengthen Singapore’s flood resilience, absolute protection is not possible and building community resilience is key. Stakeholders like building owners and contractors can ensure proper maintenance of internal drainage systems and implement flood protection measures according to stipulated guidelines to better protect their properties. Public can stay updated about flood warnings and occurrences through PUB's Telegram Channel or the myENV app.
- END -
Annex A: Syed Alwi Pumping Station as a solution to enhance flood resilience in Jalan Besar and Little India
Annex B: How the Syed Alwi Pumping Station works
