Enforcement against Cyclists Riding on Walkways and Overhead Bridges

Ms Tin Pei Ling asked the Minister for Transport (a) how is enforcement carried out to prevent cyclists riding in areas where cycling is prohibited, such as covered walkways and overhead bridges; (b) what is being done to better ensure the safety of the general public, especially in such areas; and (c) whether he can provide an update on the consultation exercise on wider use of bicycles, motorised bicycles and scooters.

Currently, enforcement of cycling prohibition rules is carried out by agencies, such as the Traffic Police and National Parks Board, and is conducted in a targeted fashion, usually in response to public complaints. Some Town Councils also enforce against errant cyclists on Housing and Development Board common property, such as covered walkways. We announced in March this year that going forward, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) will be the lead agency for cycling-related policies. One of its roles will be to coordinate the enforcement effort across agencies to ensure consistency.

However, we cannot rely on enforcement alone. We need cyclists to also play their part, follow the rules, cycle safely and give way to pedestrians. To this end, LTA and the Traffic Police work closely with community leaders to conduct talks and distribute information at schools, workplaces and foreign worker dormitories to promote safe cycling habits.

LTA is finalising the details of the consultation exercise and will share them shortly.