BASEMENT CARPARKS IN HDB ESTATES (Security measures)

Column No : 2115

BASEMENT CARPARKS IN HDB ESTATES

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(Security measures): **

31.

Mr Wee Siew Kim asked the Minister for National Development in respect of basement carparks that are built in the newer HDB estates, (a) whether he can provide information on (i) the number of occurrences of minor and major crimes to persons and property in these basement carparks; (ii) the extent of feedback for more security measures to be implemented in these basement carparks; (b) what security measures have been implemented; and (c) what additional measures are being considered

Mr Mah Bow Tan: In 2004, there were 1,026 seizable offences which occurred in all multi-storey car parks, including HDB basement carparks. While the Police closely monitor the incidence of offences in car parks across Singapore, it does not track separately the occurrences of offences by whether the car parks have basement or not. Therefore, the number specifically for HDB basement car parks is not available.

The majority of offences (around 80%) committed in multi-storey car parks involve motor vehicle theft, theft of motor vehicle parts and theft from motor vehicles.

Security is a key consideration in the design of HDB basement car parks. Where possible, HDB will design car parks with void openings to minimise blind corners and enable surveillance from the public areas. The lifts in these car parks are also fitted with vision panels to provide greater visibility at the lift lobbies and car park areas. These design features, coupled with well-lit car park decks and staircases, have helped to enhance the general safety of HDB basement carparks.

HDB works closely with the Police to educate the public on what they can do to protect their own vehicles and belongings. For example, by printing the crime prevention message 'Lock Look Leave' on parking coupons and displaying the message on wall murals in HDB car parks, they hope to remind motorists to ensure that their valuables are not left behind and that their vehicles are properly locked before they leave the car park. HDB also provides the Police with regular feedback on car parks which are more prone to crime and vandalism so that the Police can increase their patrols in these areas.

Residents and grassroots organisations can, and should, continue to play a part by forming neighbourhood watch groups in their own estates to enhance the security. In the estates where neighbourhood watch groups have been formed, they have proven effective in preventing vandalism in car parks and other public areas.

HDB will continue to work closely with the Police and the local community to enhance the safety in HDB car parks.