In Parliament on 12 Feb 2026, I raised concerns about the growing midge population at Bedok Reservoir after hearing from many of my residents. Since November 2025, many residents have faced issues with these pests in their homes. I asked the Minister if the midges are becoming resistant to our current biological larvicides and whether PUB should rotate its chemical controls. I also wanted to know how effective those LED spotlights really are at keeping midges away from residential units.
The Minister for Sustainability and the Environment confirmed that midge numbers are indeed higher this year compared to previous ones. She noted that current larvicides are still working well so there are no plans to change them yet. Instead, PUB has increased fogging and the use of larvicide while using LED lights to trap midges for more targeted treatment.
I understand that the situation remains a challenge for many families living nearby. I will continue work with PUB to explore more effective ways to manage these outbreaks so our daily lives are not disrupted.
This is the full question and answer:
Midge Population at Bedok Reservoir and Effectiveness of Control Measures
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether the midge population at Bedok Reservoir from since November 2025 is larger compared to previous years; (b) whether studies have been conducted on midge resistance to current biological larvicides; (c) whether there are plans to rotate chemical controls; and (d) what is the measurable effectiveness of LED diversion in reducing midge counts in residential units.
Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: The midge population at Bedok Reservoir in the period from November 2025 to January 2026 is higher compared to previous years. The Public Utilities Board’s (PUB’s) data shows that the current biological larvicide remains effective. PUB thus does not have plans to rotate its chemical controls.
In response to the higher midge population in this period, PUB has increased the application of biological larvicide and the frequency of fogging. LED spotlights concentrate the midges which allows for more targeted fogging. For this reason, LED spotlights remain a useful part of the suite of measures, even though PUB has not been able to quantify their effectiveness. PUB will continue to monitor the midge situation at our reservoirs closely and review the measures as needed.
Source: Singapore Parliament Reports (Hansard)
