Schemes which enhance road safety for elderly will be expanded, says Transport Minister

SINGAPORE - Existing initiatives that keep roads safe for older residents will be expanded, said Minister Khaw Boon Wan in a blog post on Saturday.

The Land Transport Authority will build lifts at more overhead bridges often used by seniors. Currently, six bridges are installed with lifts. Another 41 bridges will be installed with lifts by 2018.

"Climbing a flight of steps can be difficult for the elderly," said Mr Khaw.

Safety features are also being tested at residential areas to slow down motorists, said Mr Khaw. Roads in Jurong West and Bukit Merah for instance have rumble strips, raised zebra crossings and centre dividers.

By 2020, 35 areas with a high elderly population and higher accident rates involving seniors will have "Silver Zones" which make it easier for the them to cross.

More roads will also be narrowed "where practicable" to create more space for footpaths, said Mr Khaw. "These have been very popular and we will extend them to other parts of Singapore. As we get more senior citizens in our midst, we must make special efforts to ensure that Singapore is fully elderly-friendly."

This article was first published on Oct 31, 2015.
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