SINGAPORE: Get ready for a nature experience like no other!

The Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat Nature Park is set to grace northern Singapore, progressively opening its doors from 2028. This new ecological haven promises to be a hub for biodiversity and will serve as a majestic addition to the Sungei Buloh Nature Park Network.

Strategically located about 3 kilometers east of the existing Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, this park will span an impressive 72.8 hectares, making it more expansive than the Rifle Range Nature Park. Upon completion, it will proudly hold the title of Singapore's third-largest nature park, following in the footsteps of Chestnut Nature Park and Dairy Farm Nature Park.

A Biodiversity Sanctuary!

The National Parks Board (NParks) emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating that the Mandai Mangrove Park will play a crucial role in safeguarding an array of complementary wetland ecosystems. This includes not only mangroves but also vital mudflats and freshwater marshes, ultimately enhancing conservation efforts in northern Singapore.

Construction is set to kick off in 2026, and visitors can look forward to unique features such as trails and bird hides, where you can observe migratory birds in their natural habitat. The design is focused on minimizing any ecological footprint on the mudflats.

Two notable elevated nodes—New Sungei Pang Sua and New Sungei Kranji—will offer tourists breathtaking panoramic vistas of the wetlands and surrounding scenery. The Pang Sua node will feature an observation tower for spectacular views, while the Kranji node will provide eye-catching sights of the nearby Kranji Reservoir Park.

Educational Opportunities Abound

As one of Singapore's last remaining mangrove ecosystems, the Mandai mangrove forest is invaluable. It boasts extensive mudflats, particularly visible during low tide. In this regard, NParks is committed to providing visitors with plenty of educational opportunities regarding wetland biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Minister for National Development Desmond Lee emphasized the project’s importance, highlighting its dual role as a conservation area and an educational resource. Recent findings from NParks’ Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), conducted from August 2022 to August 2023, uncovered a treasure trove of biodiversity: 384 terrestrial and aquatic species and 196 flora species were identified, including over 50 threatened plant species.

Furthermore, the assessment reported the presence of at least 60 threatened fauna species, including the straw-headed bulbul and various horseshoe crab species. The impending nature park aims not only to protect these vulnerable populations but also to provide essential research and education opportunities.

Protecting Our Future: The EIA Findings

The EIA, which charts the environmental impact of the proposed park, has recommended a series of mitigation measures, including the salvaging and replanting of plants that hold conservation significance. Strategies to avoid disruptive construction during migratory bird season, alongside habitat restoration efforts, underscore NParks' commitment to safeguarding the rich tapestry of life in this area.

The comprehensive EIA report will be unveiled next month, and NParks is eager for public feedback on this significant conservation venture. Don’t miss the chance to play a role in protecting Singapore's ecological heritage!

Get excited for the upcoming Mandai Mangrove and Mudflat Nature Park!

Where nature, education, and conservation will come together in harmony!