Bedok Reservoir, Singapore
Bedok Reservoir is a freshwater reservoir located in the eastern part of Singapore, within the Bedok Planning Area. It was created by damming the lower reaches of Sungei Bedok and Sungei Chai Chee, transforming the area from a former sand quarry into a key water catchment facility. Today, the reservoir not only plays an essential role in Singapore’s water supply but also serves as a popular leisure destination for residents and visitors alike.
History
The site where Bedok Reservoir now stands was originally part of a series of sand quarries that operated from the 1960s through the early 1970s. As part of Singapore’s long-term water management strategy, the Public Utilities Board (PUB) identified the area as suitable for conversion into a reservoir. Construction began in the late 1970s, and the reservoir was officially completed and commissioned in 19861.
The creation of Bedok Reservoir was part of the government’s broader plan to increase self-sufficiency in water resources. It is one of the few reservoirs in Singapore that relies largely on surface runoff from urbanised areas, rather than from extensive forested catchments. Over the years, the reservoir and its surroundings have undergone numerous enhancements, including the development of Bedok Reservoir Park and recreational facilities managed by the National Parks Board (NParks).
Geography and Hydrology
Bedok Reservoir covers a surface area of about 88 hectares, with an average depth of around 18 metres. The catchment area is highly urbanised, encompassing parts of Bedok, Tampines, and Paya Lebar Planning Areas. The reservoir is fed mainly by stormwater runoff from surrounding residential and commercial zones, channelled through a network of drains and canals.
Due to its location near densely populated areas, the reservoir plays an important role in local flood management as well. PUB carefully regulates the water level through outlet structures to maintain both supply capacity and safety during heavy rain events.
Bedok Reservoir Park
The Bedok Reservoir Park surrounding the reservoir is one of the most popular parks in the eastern region of Singapore. Covering approximately 41 hectares, it features a 4.3-kilometre jogging and cycling track that encircles the water body. The park offers scenic views, picnic spots, and designated fishing areas, making it a vibrant recreational hub for residents of Bedok and nearby towns.
Bedok Reservoir Park is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can often spot water birds such as herons, kingfishers, and cormorants. The surrounding vegetation includes both native and ornamental species, contributing to biodiversity and providing shade and greenery for park users.
Water Sports and Recreation
One of the defining characteristics of Bedok Reservoir is its popularity for water sports. The calm yet expansive surface of the reservoir makes it ideal for kayaking, dragon boating, and wakeboarding. The People’s Association Water-Venture outlet at Bedok Reservoir offers rentals and training for these activities, attracting both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
Bedok Reservoir has also been a venue for major sporting events. It hosted several competitions during the 2010 Youth Olympic Games, including canoeing and kayaking. Its role as a water sports hub continues to make it a vital part of Singapore’s sporting landscape.
Surrounding Developments
The reservoir is surrounded by several key residential and commercial areas. To the south lies the Bedok Town Centre, one of the largest suburban centres in the East Region. To the north and west, new developments in Tampines and Paya Lebar bring a mix of housing, offices, and educational institutions.
The Bedok Reservoir MRT Station on the Downtown Line provides convenient access to the area. The park and waterfront are easily reachable by public transport, cycling paths, and pedestrian walkways, making it an accessible destination for both locals and tourists.
Environmental Importance
Like other reservoirs managed by PUB, Bedok Reservoir plays a significant role in Singapore’s Four National Taps strategy — the framework ensuring a sustainable and diversified water supply. Water collected in the reservoir is treated at the Bedok Waterworks, which processes raw water to potable standards before distribution.
Environmental monitoring is ongoing to maintain high water quality, given the urbanised nature of the catchment. PUB and NParks also collaborate to manage erosion, reduce littering, and preserve the ecological balance of the surrounding green spaces.
Interesting Facts
- Bedok Reservoir is one of the few reservoirs in Singapore developed from a disused sand quarry.
- The reservoir has become a well-known spot for sunrise photography, thanks to its broad water surface and open sky views.
- It has been featured in various running events and triathlons, including the SAFRA Singapore Bay Run and Army Half Marathon.
- In 2012, it gained attention for a series of unusual incidents involving the discovery of bodies in the reservoir, though these were later found to be unrelated.
- It remains a key part of Singapore’s eastern green corridor, connecting to parks such as Bedok Town Park and Tampines Eco Green.
Connectivity and Access
Access to Bedok Reservoir is excellent. The nearby Bedok Reservoir MRT Station on the Downtown Line connects the area directly to central Singapore. Several bus services also operate along Bedok Reservoir Road and Bedok North Avenue 3. For drivers, major roads such as Pan-Island Expressway (PIE) and Bedok North Road provide convenient links to other parts of the island.
Parking facilities are available near the park entrances, and cyclists can take advantage of the Park Connector Network (PCN), which links Bedok Reservoir to other parts of eastern Singapore, including East Coast Park and Pasir Ris Park.
Conclusion
Bedok Reservoir exemplifies Singapore’s success in balancing urban development with sustainable water management and recreational opportunities. From its beginnings as a sand quarry to its present-day role as both a water supply asset and leisure haven, the reservoir stands as a model of integrated urban planning. Whether for fitness, family outings, or water sports, Bedok Reservoir continues to be one of the most beloved outdoor destinations in eastern Singapore.
Bedok Reservoir is 
on the Map of Reservoirs in Singapore
References
- Public Utilities Board (PUB) – Four National Taps
- National Parks Board – Bedok Reservoir Park
- Visit Singapore – Bedok Reservoir Park
- The Straits Times – Singapore Reservoirs and Catchments
Page Details
This page was created on 5 October 2025. Hi, my name is Timothy and created it from my research, for my own entertainment, knowledge and to satisfy my curiosity. I am providing the information to you in good faith and hope it is useful. I try to get the details as accurate as possible. I also try to update the page whenever I stumble on new details. So this and all my other pages are perpetual work in progress. If you discover any error, please politely inform me, pointing out where the error lies, and I will correct it as soon as possible. Your helpfulness will keep this page accurate, relevant and helpful to those who need the information.List of Reservoirs in Singapore
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