SINGAPORE : Massage parlours have been springing up in Little India, making residents and tenants there uneasy. In response to public concerns, police have stepped up patrols in the area.

Little India is lively, bustling and a hot favourite among tourists.

Several new businesses such as budget hotels, pubs and internet cafes have sprung up in the past two years to cater to cost-conscious tourists. Some shopkeepers said business has never been better.

One shopkeeper, Mr Shanmugam, said: "Business is (better now). Last time, (there were) not many people around this area. Now it is improving. (There are) lots of people and vehicles moving here all the time."

Over the past few months, several massage parlours have opened in the area. There are at least seven outlets along a short stretch of Dunlop Street.

And when night falls, the area comes alive, drawing the crowds with its glitzy signboards. Shopkeepers and shoppers said foreign workers frequent the massage parlours on weekends.

One shopkeeper, Ms Aminah, said: "When I see the Thai massage (parlours) here, I feel (uneasy)."

Business tenant Mr Navalan added: "What kind of impression will tourists have? (They will think that) this is a red light area. In time to come, I can assure you this area can become a red light (district). Nobody knows what is happening inside the massage parlours."

Visitors to Little India said they are unhappy with the estate's transformation. They used to take Dunlop Street as a short cut between Jalan Besar and Serangoon Road. But they are giving it a wide berth now for safety reasons.

The Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association said the police have stepped up their presence in the area to maintain law and order. - CNA/ms