Enhanced security measures rolled out at CNY Bazaar in Chinatown
Enhanced security measures have been rolled out in anticipation of large crowds thronging Chinatown for the Chinese New Year Bazaar, which is held from Jan 1 to 21, the eve of CNY.
The police said on Thursday that diversions to access the bazaar may be implemented for crowd safety. If crowd safety thresholds are reached, specific areas will be locked down.
Members of the public are advised to be patient and to follow the instructions of officers. They should not attempt to force their way into crowded or closed-off areas.
Those intending to visit Chinatown between Jan 13 to 15 and Jan 20 to 21 can also review in real-time how crowded the area is on the Crowd@Chinatown map found at https://str.sg/wFgG. Users will be able to access the online map from 6pm on those dates.
Police officers, auxiliary police officers and security officers will be deployed for anti-crime and crowd management in Chinatown.
Temple Street will be closed to vehicular traffic for the Chinese New Year Bazaar until Jan 21 during the following periods:
-Mondays to Thursdays, from 3pm to 11pm
-Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, from 12pm to 12am
-21 January (CNY Eve), from 10am to 2am the following day
During these times, access will only be granted to police and emergency vehicles. Auxiliary police officers will be deployed to assist and direct motorists. Parking restrictions will be strictly enforced, and vehicles found parking and causing obstruction will be towed.
As the Chinatown MRT station, which is on the North-East Line and Downtown Line, is expected to be crowded, commuters are advised to consider using the Maxwell MRT station - as the nearest alternative - on the Thomson-East Coast Line.
The police also advised members of the public to safeguard their belongings and be vigilant against molesters and pickpockets due to the large crowds.
They should look after their belongings at all times, be cautious when approached by strangers who try to get very close to them, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing excessive jewellery.
Anyone with information on suspicious persons or activities can contact the Internal Security Department at 1800-2626-473 or the Police at 999, or SMS to 71999, or submit the information online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness.
Members of the public can also download the SGSecure App from Google Play Store or the Apple App Store to provide information to the authorities.
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