ZEBRA CROSSINGS (Installation of traffic control lights)

Mr Ang Nam Piau asked the Minister for National Development and Communications if he is aware that zebra crossings without traffic control lights are dangerous to both pedestrians and motorists and if he will consider installing traffic control lights at all zebra crossings.

The Senior Minister of State for National Development (Dr Tan Eng Liang) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, zebra crossings are used at locations where vehicular traffic flow is relatively light such as minor roads in housing estates, factory roads and slip roads at junctions. Usually beacons, flood lights and traffic signals are installed at these crossings to attract the attention of motorists.

Pedestrian signals, on the other hand, are normally used at locations where vehicular traffic flow is heavy and fast moving. The Public Works Department will convert zebra crossings to signalised crossings at locations where vehicular traffic has since increased appreciably.