A FEAST FOR THE SENSES

The fireworks at this year's National Day Parade (NDP) promise to invade the senses.

Viewers will get to see, smell and feel the impact of the pyrotechnics being fired from four different locations in and around Marina Bay.

For the first time in seven years, fireworks will be launched from the top of three buildings at the same time: One Raffles Quay, Republic Plaza and UOB Plaza.

As part of the NDP's PossibiCity segment, a 200m-wide curtain of golden pyrotechnics will flow from Benjamin Sheares Bridge.

Another first is the inclusion of flame effects that will dance in columns along the Floating Platform.

In all, NDP spectators can expect to enjoy about eight minutes of pyrotechnic and flame effects.

"Communicating with various staff to ensure that the fireworks complement the show is my biggest challenge," said Major (MAJ) Tham Tiem Foo, who heads the NDP fireworks committee.

As safety is also a prime issue, technicians from fireworks firm Glorious Singapore have to work closely with Singapore Armed Forces personnel to prevent all possible accidents.

"We're using buildings this year, so we have safety equipment in place to protect their infrastructure," added MAJ Tham.

For First Sergeant Xu Qiao Yu, working as a safety specialist atop UOB Plaza has been a difficult yet satisfying experience.

"It's quite a challenge to walk on the rooftop gondola track, as there are no railings at the side," she said.

"But I get a great view from the 66th floor."