River Tourism Risk Assessment, Singapore

The Requirement

As part of a larger plan to revitalise the area and make the Singapore River a world-class tourist destination, a new transport system operating along the length of the Singapore River from Kim Seng to the new Merlion Park was introduced to serve both locals and tourists.

What We Delivered

The purpose of BMT's involvement was to determine the maximum number of craft that can operate in the Singapore River with a high degree of safety during the day and night taking into consideration all the activities that may be conducted in the river. A risk study included:

• Surveys of traffic activity;
• Capacity assessment of riverboat activity, and identification of future risks;
• Recommendations on improving safety, emergency response and pier capacity as a guide to assist the licensing of ferry operators.

Outcome and Benefits

Sustainability - The project was focused on managing risk & safety – essential elements if the waterways leading to these developments are to act as a long-term sustainable transport mode.

Innovation - BMT’s Dynamic Marine Traffic Simulation models were applied to examine risks for operations within the canal.

Added Value - A key issue identified in the study, but not in the original brief, was the lack of life saving or access points to the river and recommendations were made to improve safety for all users.