Need an escape from the busy life and crazy human traffic? Telok Blangah Hill Park is often a nice spot for a walk.
Its Forest Walk spans 1.3km and it’s stair-free, making it accessible for everyone to soak in the Amazon-like vibes.
Unfortunately, some parts of the Telok Blangah Hill Park will be closed till 2026 to make way for repairs.
Heavy Rain and Slope Failure
The National Parks Board (NParks) announced the first closure of the Forest Walk on 1 Mar, 2023, following an alert that there was a slope failure earlier that day.
Slope failure happens when there is a downslope movement of soil, rock and debris. It can only be considered a landslide and dangerous when there is large erosion.
In an exclusive interview with The Straits Times, NParks’ group director for parks, Chua Yen Ling, said that the slope failure was due to heavy and prolonged rain on 28 Feb.
In case you need a refresher, in early March of 2023, Singapore experienced its “winter” with its “air-con” temperatures and heavy rain all day, every day.
Therefore, to prevent further soil erosion and potentially injuring visitors, a closure for repair is important.
Forest Walk and Earth Trail Closure
To ensure repair works can happen smoothly, the National Environment Agency has decided to close the eastern section of the Forest Walk and Earth Trail until the end of July 2026.
The suggested alternative route would be along Telok Blangah Height. It can go towards the Henderson Waves – the famous hangout spot perfect for pictures and watching the sunset.
Repair Works
What can we expect once the doors to Telok Blangah Hill Park reopen in 2026?
According to NParks, they hope to stabilise the slopes and make the foundation of the walkways stronger. This means that it can more likely withstand the effects of the island’s tropical climate.
They also wish to replant some vegetation lost in the initial erosion and construction, as well as ensure that it looks as scenic as it was.
This is in addition to the regular inspection and checks of surrounding areas. In true Singapore kiasu fashion: Prevention is better than cure.
While we wait for Telok Blangah Hill Park to open, do keep a lookout for other temporary park connector closures. This includes the Ang Mo Kio Ave 5 Park Connector and Punggol Promenade Nature Walk.
They are expected to fully open after repair works in 2028 and 2024 respectively.
