A sambar deer was tragically struck by a car along Mandai Lake Road, an area known for its proximity to wildlife habitats. The accident, which left the deer with serious injuries including broken limbs, occurred during the day—a time when deer sightings are less common. Unfortunately, the severity of the injuries left authorities with no choice but to euthanise the animal on humane grounds.
Photos of the accident quickly circulated online, sparking an outpouring of reactions from netizens. Many expressed concern for the deer, while others debated who or what was to blame. Some commenters speculated that the vehicle must have been moving at high speed, given the damage to its front bonnet. Others called for stronger road safety measures, including speed bumps and wildlife crossing signs to alert motorists.
Netizens React with Sympathy, Humour, and Frustration
While some online comments were heartfelt and empathetic, others took a more light-hearted or satirical approach. One user joked about making sambal out of the sambar, while others made wordplay puns such as “Oh deer,” a sentiment that appeared in multiple comments. However, not all found humour in the situation—many condemned such comments as inappropriate, given the gravity of the incident.
Several users voiced their frustration at the increasing number of wildlife accidents in the Mandai area. One commenter wrote, “Result of severe deforestation to build BTO. Their homes are gone. So are they.” Others urged the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to act by installing proper fencing and warning signs to protect both drivers and animals.
Wildlife Incidents Increasing in Mandai: Call for Action
The Mandai precinct, home to the Singapore Zoo and surrounding nature reserves, is no stranger to wildlife crossing roads. In recent years, sightings of wild boars, pangolins, and now sambar deer have become more common, especially as urban development continues to encroach into forested areas. The incident has reignited calls for a review of traffic policies in ecologically sensitive zones.
Calls for compensation or insurance coverage also emerged. Some questioned whether such accidents are claimable under standard motor insurance policies, while others half-joked about claiming from NParks or reselling deer meat to recoup damages. Nonetheless, others focused on the core issue: the safety and wellbeing of both animals and humans in shared spaces.
This unfortunate event highlights the urgent need for wildlife-friendly infrastructure and responsible driving behaviour in areas like Mandai. As Singapore balances development with conservation, such tragic incidents serve as painful reminders of what’s at stake when nature and urban life collide.