We thank Ms Clara Ng Wai Soon for her letter (Step up surveillance of reservoirs; Sept 30).

Reservoirs are primarily a source of water. Since 2004, we have progressively opened up our reservoirs for water sports and activities such as kayaking, dragon boating and fishing. As the community is brought closer to water, they can better appreciate and cherish this precious resource. We are heartened that Ms Ng does.

While everyone, including anglers, can share and enjoy recreational spaces at our reservoirs, they should do so in a responsible manner.

Signs at the reservoirs remind the public not to fish outside of designated areas and that the release of animals (including fish) into reservoirs is prohibited. Members of the public can call the PUB on 1800-CALL-PUB (1800-2255-782). The number is also listed on the signs.

PUB officers conduct surveillance at the reservoirs through boat and foot patrols daily, in addition to carrying out maintenance and water quality sampling work. During the surveillance, they also look out for illegal fishing and release of animals.

The reservoirs are vast open spaces and Ms Ng is right to say that our officers cannot be on watch at all times. To augment our ground surveillance efforts, we leverage on technology such as closed-circuit television cameras and unmanned aerial vehicles. The PUB will continue to keep a lookout for other means to improve our monitoring of our reservoirs.

Everyone plays a part in protecting our water resource. We welcome the public to be our eyes on the ground and report any illegal acts by calling the PUB. When reporting, it would be helpful to furnish the date, time and location of the incident, along with photos and/or videos.

Ridzuan Ismail

Director, Catchment and Waterways Department

PUB