We refer to Mr Tan Kah Heng’s letter (“Cyclists pose danger to pedestrians on Orchard Road”, 7 July 2023).

We agree with Mr Tan that public safety is paramount.  We have established rules on safe riding practices, including speed limits. Cyclists are required to slow down, stop and look out before riding across the road. They are also encouraged to dismount and push their devices in crowded areas. The Code of Conduct for Users on Public Paths, published on LTA’s website, emphasises that device users should give way to pedestrians.

Safe riding practices and gracious path sharing behavior are highlighted and reinforced in our public education campaigns as well as through our safe riding programme “Confidence on Wheels”. We also work with the Singapore Tourism Board to educate tourists on the rules and guidelines for riding in Singapore.

LTA takes a serious view of those who disregard rules and endanger others. We conduct regular enforcement operations and Orchard Road is one of the areas we patrol regularly. Action has been and will continue to be taken against errant riders, including those in Orchard Road.

In land scarce Singapore, we will not be able to provide dedicated spaces for every path user. In some areas, cyclists and pedestrians will inevitably need to share the same path. Our public paths are shared spaces, and we urge everyone to play their part to look out for one another to ensure safety for themselves and others.

Mr Chan Boon Fui 
Group Director, Active Mobility Group 
Land Transport Authority