I REFER to recent reports on the opening of Marina Barrage.

First, I applaud the Government for constructing Singapore's first city reservoir, which goes some way towards overcoming the problem of water scarcity.

The reservoir is a milestone in the area of water management.

It will also leave Singapore better-equipped to face future adversity.

Besides being an additional source of water, Marina Barrage is also a new recreation spot, where people can take part in water sports and other leisure activities.

However, as Dr Shawn Lum, president of the Nature Society (Singapore) says, while the barrage is an impressive structure, it might result in Singaporeans "losing our sense of belonging on an island".

The Singapore River has played an important role in the lives of Singaporeans since the colonial days.

The river bustles with life, but is also a reminder of how our forefathers arrived in Singapore and how they toiled to build the country.

With the opening of the reservoir, diesel-powered bumboats which plied the river had to go, so that the water quality in Marina Barrage would not be affected.

Marina Barrage will be good for Singapore, as the country will not need to rely as much as before on imported water.

It is a matter of perspective. From a pragmatic point of view, the barrage has its advantages.

From a sentimental point of view, one can see the construction of the barrage as having destroyed part of Singapore's heritage.

I take the second point of view.

However, sentiment aside, the opening of the city reservoir will benefit water management in Singapore.

Mr Sean Lim Wei Xin

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