TRAFFIC CONGESTION ALONG YIO CHU KANG ROAD (Relief Measures)

Mr Lim Choon Mong asked the Minister for Communications and Works whether he will make a statement on the progress of the measures taken to relieve traffic congestion along that part of Yio Chu Kang Road between Serangoon Garden Way and Paya Lebar Post Office.

Mr Francis Thomas: This is a matter for the City Council and Rural Board. I understand that it is intended that the road at this point should be straightened and widened to 66 feet with a reserve so that it can be further widened to 100 feet at a later stage if necessary. Acquisition proceedings are now in progress. As soon as they have been completed and some temporary structures and shophouses have been removed from the line of the road, the work of widening will commence. Meanwhile some alleviation of the traffic congestion may be possible by reinstituting the former white line down the centre of the road. This has already been done in the City Council section of the road and the Rural Board has been asked to do the same in that portion of the road in the rural area.

Mr Lim Choon Mong: Can the Minister inform the House as to when this work will be completed?

Mr Francis Thomas: No, Sir. I have had enquiries made, but in view of the complication and difficulty of land acquisition and clearance, I would not care to prophesy when the site will be clear and the work can go ahead.

Mr Lim Choon Mong: Would the Minister assure the House that he will push this matter through as fast as possible?

Mr Francis Thomas: In so far as it lies in my power to encourage the efforts of the City Council and the Rural Board, I will certainly do so.