SINGAPORE — As intense rain fell over parts of Singapore this afternoon (July 29), drainage systems in several locations were overwhelmed, resulting in flash floods.

Flash floods were reported at MacKenzie Road, Kramat Lane and Bassein Road, said the PUB. The localised flash floods subsided in less than 25 minutes and the roads remained passable to traffic, said the national water agency.

The PUB said the heaviest rainfall was recorded at Handy Road with a total rainfall of 95.4mm from 2.10pm to 4pm. It peaked between 2.30pm to 3pm, with a rainfall of 49.4 mm.

To improve flood protection, the existing culvert at the downstream junction of MacKenzie Road and Bukit Timah Road will be upgraded in tandem with the Land Transport Authority’s Downtown Line II works, said the PUB. This is in addition to the drainage improvement works along MacKenzie Road that were completed in December last year.

PUB will also deepen and widen the existing culvert at Bassein Road, with work slated to start in the fourth quarter of this year.

As part of measures to enchance flood protection for the Stamford Canal Catchment — which covers the Orchard Road shopping belt, including Kramat Lane — PUB has started construction work for the Stamford Detention Tank and Stamford Diversion Canal. Works are expected to be completed by 2016 and 2017 respectively.