The Stream, August 14, 2019: Singapore Seeks Water Independence from Malaysia

The Global Rundown

Singapore looks for ways to boost their water independence and decrease reliance of Malaysian imports. Flooding strikes Karachi and other parts of Pakistan, leaving 17 people dead. Costs mount to restore the flooded Midwestern United States. High water levels force road closures and other issues across Michigan. Researchers in Colorado use drones and other technology to analyze crop moisture. 

“We (Singapore) are nowhere near water independence and heavily reliant on Malaysia. It is crucial to be water independent. No one should have to rely on someone else for a basic need.” –Adam Reutens-Tan, a resident of Singapore, in reference to the country’s attempt to lessen its reliance on water imports from Malaysia. Singapore is trying to boost its supply through conservation, re-use, and new technologies. World Economic Forum

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By The Numbers

$1.2 billion Cost of damages to roads, bridges, buildings, utilities, and other public infrastructure across 24 U.S. states in the first half of 2019, according to data gathered by The Associated Press. A majority of these damages were caused by flooding and storms in the Midwestern U.S. this spring. Many states are setting aside special funds to address the damages, but the funds will cover only a fraction of total damages. AP

17 People who have died in Pakistan as heavy monsoon rains deluged Karachi and surrounding areas. Rescuers, who are still unable to reach some parts of Karachi due to flooded streets, say the death toll is likely to rise. Al Jazeera

Science, Studies, and Reports

U.S. Department of Agriculture stations in the Southwestern United States are experimenting with drones and other technology to help streamline use of water from the Colorado River. The drones fly over crops with an infrared camera, and the images help farmers determine daily watering needs. The Denver Post

On the Radar

High water levels throughout the state of Michigan have been causing chaos since spring, due to a combination of heavy snowmelt and above-average rainfall. Several areas have declared localized states of emergency due to flooding, and erosion along Lake Superior is prompting emergency infrastructure repairs in the Upper Peninsula. MLive

Kayla Ritter

Kayla Ritter is a recent graduate of Michigan State University, where she studied International Relations and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. She is currently based in Manton, Michigan. Kayla enjoys running, writing, and traveling. Contact Kayla Ritter