MODIFICATION OF OVERHEAD BRIDGES

MODIFICATION OF OVERHEAD BRIDGES

7.

Mdm Halimah Yacob asked the Minister for Transport in view of Singapore's rapidly ageing population (a) whether LTA has any plans to modify the existing overhead bridges which the elderly find very difficult to use; (b) if so, when will such modification works start; and (c) whether LTA will ensure that new pedestrian bridges are also elderly friendly.

Mr Raymond Lim Siang Keat: We would like to assure Mdm Halimah Yacob that we recognise the need to continually adapt our transportation system and road infrastructure to the changing demographics of our society. In fact, on-going improvements are already being rolled out progressively on the public transport network and pedestrian facilities to improve barrier-free access for our commuters, including the elderly. For example, by the end of this year, LTA would have completed a $60 million island-wide programme to make public pedestrian walkways, taxi and bus shelters, and public roads barrier-free and elderly-friendly.

Our pedestrian overhead bridges facilitate the safe crossing of roads. Where there is demand and traffic conditions allow, LTA will explore the provision of traffic light

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crossings at the road-level, and adjusting the traffic light timings as appropriate so that the elderly can cross our roads safely. We have piloted programmes such as the Green Man Plus scheme, where senior citizens can extend the "Green-man" pedestrian crossing time by using their senior citizen concession farecards at selected traffic junctions. We will continue with these efforts going forward.

Specific to pedestrian overhead bridges, LTA has been constructing these in compliance with existing accessibility codes. For instance, there are guidelines for the steps to be adequately low and wide, so that they are more elderly-friendly. Where space permits, LTA has also been providing ramps at more pedestrian overhead bridges, to make it easier for the less ambulant and the elderly to use.

We are also exploring other ways to further enhance the accessibility of pedestrian overhead bridges for the elderly. LTA has been conducting detailed studies on the possibility of retrofitting selected overhead bridges in the immediate vicinity of MRT stations with lifts. This is a thorough study, covering not just the selection of bridges and technical feasibility, but also how the lifts will be operated and maintained once they are installed. As this is a significant undertaking, we have to weigh this carefully against cost considerations and other available alternatives.

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