PEDESTRIAN OVERHEAD BRIDGE IN FRONT OF CHANGKAT PRIMARY SCHOOL (Construction)

Mr Teo Chong Tee asked the Minister for National Development whether a pedestrian overhead bridge will be constructed in front of Changkat Primary School at Simei Street 3.

Mr Lim Hng Kiang (for the Minister for National Development): Changkat Primary School's gate at Simei Street 3 is only 80 metres away from the Simei Street 3/Simei Street 1 signalised junction. At this junction, pedestrian signals are provided, and the pupils can cross safely. There is, therefore, no plan at present to provide a pedestrian overhead bridge near the school.

Mr Teo Chong Tee: Sir, in view of the increasing number of heavy vehicles moving along Simei Street 3, because of the construction of the Eastern General Hospital, I see a need for an overhead bridge to be provided not only for the students but for the residents. I hope the Minister will consider that as a priority.

Mr Lim Hng Kiang: Whether they are heavy vehicles or light vehicles, they have to stop at the signalised junction so that the children can cross. But where the pedestrian load exceeds a certain factor, PWD will certainly put up a pedestrian overhead bridge for the school children. 1.28 pm