Cross-Island Line: Is it crossing the line?

Yet another new MRT line to add to the network of trains in Singapore. The Cross-Island Line was proposed by the Land Transport Authority on 17 January 2013, but it is not without controversy. Since its announcement, there has been much disagreements over the alignment of the line since the line is proposed to cut through the Central Catchment Nature Reserve (CCNR).

The CCNR contains some of the most unspoiled ecosystems in Singapore, including two patches of primary forest and four natural stream systems. Building the Cross-Island Line through the CCNR would negatively affect the habitats of the precious biodiversity found in the forests there. Furthermore, cutting through the CCNR would inevitably lead to forest fragmentation, preventing individuals from mating across isolated patches. (Love Our MacRitchie Forest, 2013)

In that regard, it is heartening to see several environmental groups stepping up to prevent the destruction of our forests. For one, the Nature Society (Singapore) published the Cross-Island Line Discussion and Position Paper in response to the announcement to build the line. The Nature Society (Singapore) proposed 2 alternative alignments for the line, which would only add a mere 4 minutes of travel time.

Another initiative launched is the Love Our MacRitchie Forest campaign, which is about promoting an appreciation for the forests in MacRitchie, so as to garner support for the re-routing of the Cross-Island Line. Earlier this year, I had the privilege of attending a Love MacRitchie walk organised by Love Our MacRitchie Forest. Surprisingly, the walk was guided by none other than NUS students! Their passion and love for our precious biodiversity really inspired me. I saw many species of flora and fauna, and this diversity is something I never thought existed in Singapore!

That's me on the far right at the walk! :)
(Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/habitatnews/14141444913/in/set-72157644489430316)

I am genuinely happy to see different groups taking ownership of the biodiversity in Singapore and doing all they can to protect it. Singapore is not only the bustling metropolitan we know of; it is also home to many species of plants and animals. As much as we have a right to a home, these plants and animals deserve a proper home too.

References:
Love Our MacRitchie Forest, 2013. Why Love MacRitchie Forest?. URL: http://lovemacritchie.wordpress.com/why/ (accessed on 5 Oct 2014)