A joint enforcement operation by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Land Transport Authority (LTA) has resulted in 18 cyclists and personal mobility device (PMD) users being caught for various offences in the vicinity of Jalan Anak Bukit and West Coast Highway.
The operation was conducted on Aug. 14, with authorities detecting a total of 26 offences. The enforcement action comes amid continued efforts to improve road safety and ensure that cyclists and PMD users comply with Singapore’s traffic regulations.
Officers from the Traffic Police (TP) and LTA also spoke to cyclists and PMD users during the operation, reminding them about the rules and safety requirements governing the use of bicycles and personal mobility devices on public paths and roads.
Bicycle And PMD Seized
Among the offences detected, one bicycle was seized after its rider was found using a fixed-gear bicycle on a public path without a working handbrake. Investigations into the case are ongoing.
Authorities also seized a PMD after its rider was found using a non-compliant and unregistered device on a public path. Investigations are also being carried out in relation to that case.
The enforcement operation followed an earlier incident in which a group of cyclists was seen being stopped by authorities along West Coast Highway during the early hours of Aug. 15. The latest operation highlights the attention being placed on cycling behaviour, particularly during night-time hours.
Cyclists Fined For Night-Time Offences
Summons action was taken against 13 individuals who were found riding bicycles on roads during hours of darkness without the required lighting equipment. Under the rules, bicycles used on roads at night must display a white light at the front and either a red light or red reflector at the rear.
Another 10 individuals were issued summonses for cycling on roads without wearing a protective bicycle helmet. These offences formed part of the 26 violations detected during the joint operation.
The authorities have reiterated that road users, including cyclists and PMD users, are expected to understand and follow the relevant regulations. Failure to do so can create additional risks for themselves as well as motorists, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.
Authorities Urge Safer Riding
The enforcement operation also served as an opportunity for officers to engage cyclists and PMD users directly. Besides taking enforcement action, TP and LTA officers provided reminders about cycling and PMD rules and guidelines.
The authorities said they take offences that could endanger public safety seriously, particularly where riders fail to comply with requirements intended to improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.
Cyclists and PMD users have therefore been advised to check that their equipment meets the relevant requirements before setting off. Those travelling at night should ensure that their bicycle has the required front and rear lighting or reflective equipment, while cyclists riding on roads should also wear an appropriate protective helmet.
With cycling and other forms of personal mobility remaining popular in Singapore, enforcement operations such as this are likely to remain an important part of efforts to improve road safety and encourage responsible riding behaviour across the island.