Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap (Aljunied): Madam, in MOT’s COS 2022 Debate, I had asked LTA to consider building sheltered linkways at pedestrian crossings, as part of a Silver Zone feature, towards further improving the safety of elderly Singaporeans when moving around the estate. I would like to seek updates on this suggestion.
I would also like to request that if LTA is to implement this suggestion, please do consider my ward, Kaki Bukit, for its pilot as it is one of the first few estates to have a Silver Zone. Sadly, Kaki Bukit does not even have a single sheltered linkway erected by LTA at pedestrian crossings, although I have previously sent written requests to LTA for such improvements.
Madam, in addition, I would like to suggest that LTA consider widening the pedestrian path at pedestrian crossing islands. With the increase in the use of PMAs by the elderly and physically disabled, widening such areas would enhance the safety and comfort for all users.
Finally, I would like to ask that LTA share the most common feedback LTA has received, regarding improvements to the Silver Zone features, as well as what LTA has implemented, in response to such feedback.
The Senior Minister of State for Transport (Dr Amy Khor Lean Suan): Today, we have around 285 kilometers of covered linkways built by LTA connecting major transport nodes to key amenities within a 400-metre radius. Mr Ang Wei Neng will be glad to know that we will now expand this parameter, to also build covered linkways to connect MRT stations to more Friendly Streets that are largely within an 800-metre radius, and also to some key amenities nearby. LTA will conduct site studies to identify suitable locations for these covered linkways, including evaluating the many requests for covered linkways, such as Mr Faisal Manap’s.
Ministry of Transport
5 March 2024
https://sprs.parl.gov.sg/search/#/sprs3topic?reportid=budget-2377
Office of the Leader of the Opposition 