The Singapore Police Force has issued a public advisory ahead of Deepavali celebrations in Little India, warning members of the public to expect large crowds, heavy traffic and tighter safety measures on Saturday, 7 November 2026.
With thousands of people expected to visit the area to enjoy the festive atmosphere, motorists and pedestrians are advised to plan their journeys carefully, remain alert and take precautions to protect their personal belongings.
Serangoon Road is expected to experience particularly heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the celebrations. The police have also announced temporary pedestrian crossing closures, restrictions on public drinking and stricter enforcement against illegal fireworks activities.
Police Remind Visitors To Watch Their Belongings
Visitors heading to Little India are advised to remain vigilant, especially when moving through crowded areas where opportunistic theft may occur.
The police have recommended several crime prevention measures, including keeping bags securely closed and slinging them in front of the body. Members of the public should also avoid placing their wallets in their back pockets and keep a close watch on their personal belongings.
Anyone who requires urgent police assistance can approach a nearby police officer or call 999.
Temporary Pedestrian Crossing Closures On 7 November
Motorists travelling through Little India should expect traffic congestion and are encouraged to use alternative routes where possible.
Several pedestrian crossings will also be affected by temporary closures to facilitate crowd and traffic management.
The pedestrian crossing at Birch Road, in front of Anguilla Mosque, will be closed from 4pm on 7 November until 4am on 8 November 2026.
The nearest alternative crossings will be located near Kitchener Link or Baboo Lane.
Meanwhile, the pedestrian crossing at Campbell Lane may also be closed if necessary. Should this happen, pedestrians will be directed to alternative crossings near Sungei Road or Dunlop Street.
Directional signs will be installed to guide pedestrians, while Auxiliary Police officers will be deployed along affected roads and junctions to assist visitors and regulate traffic.
Public Drinking Ban In Little India And Geylang
The police have reminded the public that both Little India and Geylang are designated Liquor Control Zones (LCZ) under the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015.
A ban on public drinking will be in effect from 10.30pm on 6 November until 7am on 10 November 2026.
Anyone caught consuming liquor in public places within these zones during the restricted period faces enhanced penalties.
First-time offenders may be fined up to S$1,500 upon conviction. Repeat offenders face a fine of up to S$3,000, imprisonment of up to four and a half months, or both.
Retailers who supply liquor beyond their permitted trading hours may also risk having their liquor licences revoked. Singapore Police Force+1
Police Warn Against Illegal Fireworks
The police have also warned that strict enforcement action will be taken against anyone found possessing, discharging or importing fireworks illegally.
According to the advisory, 45 people were investigated for offences involving the possession, discharge and importation of fireworks between January and December 2025.
Under the Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act 2021, fireworks are classified as explosives. Illegal possession, discharge and importation are separate offences.
Individuals convicted of these offences may face imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to S$50,000. Entities may face fines of up to S$100,000.
Misusing Sparklers Could Also Lead To Jail
Beyond fireworks, the police have highlighted the dangers of misusing sparklers, particularly when multiple sparklers are combined and ignited together.
Such actions can create potential fire hazards and put people nearby at risk of serious injuries.
Under Section 284 of the Penal Code 1871, anyone found guilty of rash or negligent conduct involving dangerous or harmful substances may face imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to S$5,000, or both if the act is likely to cause injury or endanger human life.
If the misuse causes hurt to another person, the offender may face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.
The police have urged everyone celebrating Deepavali in Little India to observe the rules, remain alert and cooperate with officers on duty to ensure a safe and orderly festive period.
Useful information for visitors:
- Date: Saturday, 7 November 2026.
- Affected road: Serangoon Road.
- Birch Road crossing closure: 4pm on 7 November to 4am on 8 November.
- Public drinking restriction: 10.30pm on 6 November to 7am on 10 November.
- Emergency police assistance: 999.