Traffic Signs Partly Covered by Trees and Shrubs

Mr Ang Hin Kee asked the Minister for Transport (a) how does the Ministry check for traffic signs that are partially covered by vegetation such as tree branches and shrubs along roads and expressways; and (b) what are the measures in place to ensure that these signs are visible to motorists and that pruning takes place regularly.

The Senior Minister of State for Transport (Dr Lam Pin Min) (for the Minister for Transport): Mdm Speaker, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) stipulates that trees cannot be planted within 75 metres in front of advance directional signs on expressways, or 45 metres on all other roads. No-planting zones are also established around pedestrian crossings to ensure that motorists have a clear view of pedestrians. The size of these no-planting zones depends on the site conditions, such as the geometry of the road and the speed limit.

In addition, NParks conducts inspections at least once a month to make sure that greenery does not block the visibility of crossings and signs.

Mr Ang Hin Kee (Ang Mo Kio): Mdm Speaker, a supplementary question. How does LTA therefore ensure that traffic signs are also visible and well-maintained?

Dr Lam Pin Min: Mdm Speaker I would like to thank Mr Ang for the supplementary question. LTA inspects roads at regular intervals − weekly for expressways, every two weeks for major roads and every eight weeks for minor roads. During inspections, LTA detects road defects such as faded signs and signs blocked by trees or shrubs and LTA will rectify the defects and also alert NParks should there be any trees that obstruct the road signs.