Debated in Parliament on 14 Mar 2016.
Mr Saktiandi Supaat asked the Minister for Transport in view of the increasing number of elderly living in Toa Payoh East-Novena who are less mobile and have poorer eyesight whether the Ministry will consider prohibiting the use of electric bicycles on designated pedestrian walks and traffic light crossings in Toa Payoh East-Novena for the safety of the elderly and young children.
Mdm Speaker, electric bicycles can only be used on roads. Those caught riding on pedestrian footpaths will be fined. For everyone's safety, LTA had tightened the technical requirements for electric bicycles in December last year. Only electric bicycles which weigh less than 20 kilogrammes and the motor power cut off as they reach speeds of 25 kilometres per hour or, if the cyclist stops pedalling, are allowed on public roads. This is to minimise injuries in case of accidents. LTA has also stepped up enforcement and penalties against electric bicycles that do not comply with these requirements.
I thank the Senior Minister of State for the answer. My question actually arose because there has been an increasing number of incidents and also feedback from my residents in Toa Payoh East and I am sure in other constituencies in Singapore as well, especially those that have an increasingly ageing population. A number of my elderly residents have been hit by bicycles that have been moving much faster than the 25 km/h speed limit mentioned. What other further action plans have been taken to enhance the enforcement on these electric bicycles, especially on pedestrian pathways and traffic crossings in particular?
Mdm Speaker, I thank the Member for the supplementary question. A comprehensive review is currently being undertaken by Parliamentary Secretary Assoc Prof Dr Faishal Ibrahim and I understand that the current discussions are in the advanced stages. The review panel will be making its announcement known soon and it will address the different aspects that the Member has raised.
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