Residents along Yishun Street 22 were left shaken after a large branch from a decaying tree broke off and slammed into a HDB block, damaging two flats and smashing through the glass windows of one unit. Fortunately, no one was injured, though one resident narrowly escaped serious harm when glass shards landed on him.
The incident took place at Block 259 Yishun Street 22, according to Nee Soon GRC MP Jackson Lam, who addressed the matter in a Facebook post. He confirmed that the affected tree was already marked for removal due to signs of decay — but ironically, it was the removal works that ended up triggering the dangerous fall.
Tree Already Decaying, Works May Have Made Things Worse
MP Lam revealed that the tree had been structurally weakened due to internal decay. A landscaping company had been engaged to remove the tree, and precautionary measures had been put in place — including informing residents and cordoning off the area.
Despite these steps, part of the tree gave way during the process and crashed into the HDB block, damaging two flats. One of the units bore the brunt of the impact when a large branch pierced through its glass window, sending shattered pieces flying into the living room.
Inside, a resident was reportedly resting on a couch when the glass broke above him. While he avoided any physical injuries, the shock of the incident left his hearing temporarily affected due to the deafening crash.
Cracks were also found on the flat’s interior walls, and the metal window grilles were bent from the force of the impact. A metal signboard in the park below was also mangled in the incident, a clear sign of how powerful the falling branch was.
Town Council to Assist Affected Family With Compensation
MP Lam assured the public that clean-up operations are already underway. The Town Council has begun clearing the debris and inspecting the affected units for structural damage. At the same time, a separate team is removing the rest of the compromised tree to prevent further accidents.
He added that the Town Council will assist the impacted family in seeking compensation from the landscaping contractor responsible for the tree removal works.
While no injuries were reported this time, the incident has sparked concern among Yishun residents about the safety of ageing trees near housing blocks — especially as Singapore continues to experience unpredictable weather and heavier rainfalls during the monsoon season.
Calls for Stronger Monitoring of Trees in Housing Estates
This incident adds to a growing list of tree-related accidents in Singapore in recent years, many caused by decay or root instability. With trees lining most public walkways and parks, calls are growing louder for tighter monitoring and more proactive inspections — particularly in mature estates like Yishun.
Residents are also encouraged to report any visible signs of leaning trees, cracks in trunks, or decaying bark to their Town Councils promptly. With climate change bringing stronger winds and heavier rains, preventive action could mean the difference between a close shave and a tragedy.
MP Lam concluded his update by thanking residents for their patience and cooperation, and reiterated his commitment to ensuring the neighbourhood remains safe for all.
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