Written answer by Ministry of National Development on assessment of Pneumatic Waste Conveyance System implemented in Bidadari estate

Sep 18, 2023

Question No: 4900

Question by: Mr Sitoh Yih Pin

To ask the Minister for National Development  (a) what is HDB’s assessment of the pneumatic waste conveyance system that has been implemented in Bidadari estate; (b) whether there are plans to address the issues arising from waste choking as well as putrid odours emanating from the bin centres; and (c) whether HDB will consider taking action against its vendors to seek reimbursement on behalf of the Town Council for the costs incurred in taking additional extraordinary measures to mitigate these disamenties.

Answer:

The Pneumatic Waste Conveyance System (PWCS) is an automated waste collection system that uses high speed suction via an underground pipe network to collect household waste. With the implementation of PWCS in Bidadari, the waste collection process has become cleaner and more efficient compared to conventional waste collection methods.

2        Between 2020 and 2021, as many residents moved into Bidadari estate and carried out renovation works, a high volume of bulky refuse from renovation works was improperly disposed of in the PWCS, resulting in blockage. The bulky refuse has then to be cleared manually, generating odour in the process.

3        To avoid such improper disposals, HDB and Jalan Besar Town Council (JBTC) have been actively engaging and educating residents on the proper use of the PWCS. In addition, JBTC has conducted regular washing of the Bin Centre, to minimise odour generated from the Bin Centre. The PWCS vendor engaged by JBTC has also increased the frequency of the filter replacement to address the odour feedback from the exhaust system. With these measures, the situation has improved.

4        Town Councils (TCs) manage and maintain the common areas in HDB estates, including the PWCS. The PWCS is maintained by the appointed PWCS vendor under an agreement signed between TCs and the PWCS vendors, and TCs should seek reimbursement directly from their appointed PWCS vendor.