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Prioritising development over conservation sends wrong message to next generation

I refer to the article “Impact of Cross Island work on MacRitchie significant without LTA mitigation measures” (Feb 11).

Andre Chua Tze Ming

I refer to the article “Impact of Cross Island work on MacRitchie significant without LTA mitigation measures” (Feb 11).

I am writing to express my concern about one of the two proposed alignments for the MRT Line — across the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. I understand the impact of the alignments have been studied, along with the mitigation measures for the possible impact, but in my opinion, the matter should be reconsidered carefully.

As a resident in the western part of Singapore, I was initially pleased that we will have a new way of getting across the country, making more places accessible. Taking into account Singapore’s growing population, it also adds to the necessity for an even more effective transport system.

But there is a cost to this more desirable transport alternative if the MRT line cuts through the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.

With schools emphasising the importance of protecting the environment, constructing the MRT line across the nature reserve is contradictory to the message of protecting rainforests here, and the lessons on the impact of deforestation and the like.

If the younger generation sees that transport efficiency is placed above the protection of nature, they will have a warped idea of what Singapore’s priorities are. They, the country’s future leaders, may also be confused about where they place their priorities. The consequences of this could be unimaginable.

I implore the authorities to review the decision carefully, for the sake of the younger generation.

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