Residents in certain areas of Bukit Panjang and Upper Bukit Timah are set to evacuate their homes this Tuesday due to a controlled detonation of a 100kg World War II aerial bomb. The bomb was unearthed at a construction site on Upper Bukit Timah Road during excavation works for the upcoming condominium, The Myst.
Impact on Local Schools and Roads
Greenridge Secondary School, located in proximity to the detonation site, has shifted to home-based learning for the day to ensure the safety of its students and staff. The police have announced that a 200m cordon will be established around the site, resulting in road closures from 11 am. The public will be notified once the roads are reopened and the area is deemed safe.
Affected Residences and Traffic Diversions
Several residential areas, including The Linear, Hazel Park, Bukit 828 condos, Hazel Park Terrace houses, and Housing Board homes in Block 154 Gangsa Road, will be temporarily evacuated. Additionally, shophouses on Upper Bukit Timah Road will also be affected. The Bukit Panjang Flyover and parts of Upper Bukit Timah Road will be closed to traffic from 11 am to 7 pm. Only authorized vehicles, including those of the police, SAF, and emergency services, will be allowed access. Traffic police will be present to assist and redirect motorists, and parking restrictions will be stringently enforced.
Public Advisory
The police have issued a warning against drone activities in the vicinity during the operation. They also cautioned the public to expect loud noises during the detonation and advised them to steer clear of the area.
In conclusion, while the discovery of such war relics serves as a stark reminder of Singapore’s past, the swift and coordinated response by the authorities ensures the safety and well-being of its residents.
