MOTORCYCLISTS RIDING AND PARKING ON PEDESTRIAN PAVEMENTS (Action by police)

Mr Goh Chong Chia asked the Minister for Home Affairs whether the Police will consider taking action against motorcyclists who have been riding and parking on pedestrian pavements in the Central Area as this poses a threat to the safety of pedestrians.

Assoc. Prof. Ho Peng Kee (for the Minister for Home Affairs): The answer is yes. Traffic Police takes a serious view of motorcyclists who ride and park on pedestrian pavements. Such inconsiderate acts cause obstruction and pose a danger to pedestrians. Motorcyclists who park or ride on pedestrian pavements can be fined $70. Traffic Police has been and will continue to take enforcement action against errant motorcyclists.

Mr Goh Chong Chia (Nominated Member): Sir, obviously, these motorcyclists are people who are short-term delivery boys. Is there a possibility of providing short-term parking?

Assoc. Prof. Ho Peng Kee: Sir, there are sufficient parking lots for motorcyclists in the CBD. I have been told that there are currently at least 1,200 URA motorcyclist lots provided in the CBD. So I think it is better for them to time their journeys so that they do not park illegally. I think the very nature of his question suggests that it is dangerous for them to do so. So I say it is better for them to time their journey and park where they can legally do so.