71-year-old falls into uncovered drain in Bukit Panjang, sues town council S$30,000 for injuries

A 71-year-old Bukit Panjang resident sued the Holland Village – Bukit Panjang Town Council (TC) after falling into an uncovered drain, resulting in injuries.

The woman said that she suffered from a severe rupture of ligaments in her left foot and a fracture in her right middle finger due to the incident, which happened on Feb 8, 2021, at Block 276 Bangkit Road.

Chinese language newspaper Lianhe Zaobao reported that the woman was out watering her plants when she fell into the uncovered drain on her way back home.

Following the fall, the woman allegedly sought compensation from the TC worth over S$30,000 for her medical and transportation fees.

She also blamed the TC for failing to ensure the safety of public spaces, noting it could have done more to prevent the incident, such as placing warning signs near the uncovered drains.

However, the TC has denied all accusations of negligence, pointing out flaws in the woman’s claims.

The TC removed some drain covers to facilitate cleaning and checking for mosquito breeding.

This took effect after the constituency’s division in 2001 and the transfer of maintenance matters to the TC.

The TC added that the woman has been a resident for over 30 years and should have been well-acquainted with the area.

She also tended her garden, which was illegally planted, so she should have been familiar with the surroundings, said the TC.

It was reported that the judge has yet to schedule a date for the ruling.

Netizens shared mixed reactions to the incident, with some siding with the woman.

“The TC is just neglecting the fact that no matter what, drain covers need to be covered up or barricaded off to warn the public of such open holes that have covers. This is a very bad thing to do from the TC’s point of reasoning. The drain covers shouldn’t be left open in the first place. Tsk tsk tsk,” said Facebook user Robert Tan.

Meanwhile, others said that members of the public should walk with caution and avoid being negligent of surroundings. /TISG

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