After nearly a full day of continuous pumping, the black car that plunged into a sinkhole on Tanjong Katong Road South was successfully lifted out on the afternoon of 27 July. The vehicle had fallen into the sinkhole the previous day at around 5:50 pm, triggering road closures and major disruptions in the area.
Rescue and recovery teams worked tirelessly for approximately 21 hours to pump out the water flooding the hole, making it possible to reach and extract the submerged vehicle safely. The extraction operation required precision and care to avoid further damage to the car or the surrounding infrastructure, reported Zao Bao
Significant Damage to Vehicle Observed Upon Retrieval
Onlookers and officials at the scene observed that the car had sustained considerable damage. The windscreen and multiple side windows were shattered, while mud and contaminated water flowed out from the vehicle as it was lifted from the pit. The condition of the car highlights the severity of the incident and the potential dangers posed by sudden ground collapses in urban areas.
Following the recovery, the Singapore Public Utilities Board (PUB) announced plans to continue filling and repairing the sinkhole. While the extraction marks a significant milestone, full restoration of the affected road section is expected to take some time. At present, there is no confirmed date for the reopening of the road.
Road Closure Continues, Impacting Public Transport
The affected stretch of Tanjong Katong Road South, located between Mountbatten Road and East Coast Parkway, remains closed to traffic as repair work is underway. The closure has forced adjustments to bus services in the vicinity.
Specifically, bus routes 36 and 48 have been rerouted to avoid several bus stops along Marine Parade Road, Amber Road, Mountbatten Road, and Tanjong Katong Road itself. Commuters using these services are advised to stay updated on alternative routes and prepare for potential delays while the repair works continue.
Safety Concerns and Future Precautions
This incident serves as a reminder of the risks posed by infrastructure failures in densely populated urban environments. Sinkholes, often caused by water pipe bursts or soil erosion, can appear suddenly and pose significant safety hazards to motorists and pedestrians alike.
Authorities have pledged to investigate the cause of the sinkhole thoroughly to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Enhanced monitoring and maintenance of underground utilities will likely be stepped up, particularly in older areas prone to soil instability.
Residents and commuters in the area have expressed relief at the successful extraction of the vehicle but remain cautious as repair works progress. Many hope that road conditions will be restored promptly to ease travel disruptions and ensure public safety.
Image Source: Zao Bao