Alongside Commonwealth Avenue West, a sinkhole was seen. The sinkhole was discovered on December 23, 2013. According to the Singapore Power, the sinkhole came about when the contractor, SP PowerGrid was setting electricity wires. The diameter of the sinkhole is approximately 2 metres. No injuries were accounted. The area was cordoned immediately.

Sinkhole refers to a depression in the surface of the land where a stream flows underground into a cave or channel. Here are some things that you need to know about sinkholes:

Natural development

Sinkholes develop naturally. It involves erosion and collapsing of cave roof. The process of forming is called suffusion. You will notice that sinkholes are common for limestone land surfaces, salt beds and other rocks that can physically dissolve by flowing soil water.

Artificial development

Sinkholes can also develop artificially or from human activities. For example, although it is rare, the collapse of abandoned mines can cause sinkholes. Sinkholes are common in the city because of the sewer and piping collapse. If there is a removal of water in the ground, sinkholes also happen.

Uses

People found a way to utilize the presence of sinkholes. Sinkholes are used as a disposal or dumping sites for many types of wastes. Other people see this harmless but in fact, it pollutes the water underground. There are sinkholes that are revered by people. These sinkholes became popular diving and caving spots.

It is unsettling (or frightful) when you hear sudden appearances of sinkholes. If you see sinkholes, you should inform the authorities right away so they can do cordon and study it. It is also important to let the authorities know so they can warn other people.