Check online for crowd levels before going to the Chinese New Year bazaar in Chinatown: Police
Specific areas will be locked down if crowd safety thresholds are reached, say the police.
Pedestrians and shoppers in the Chinatown area of Singapore amid Chinese New Year festivities on Jan 1, 2023. (Photo: CNA)
SINGAPORE: People planning to visit the Chinese New Year bazaar in Chinatown are advised to check online for crowd levels during busy periods before heading down, the police said on Thursday (Jan 12).
The bazaar is being held from Jan 1 to Jan 21 after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
For crowd safety, diversions to access the bazaar may be implemented, said the police. If crowd safety thresholds are reached, specific areas will be locked down, they added.
"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," the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said.
The public is advised to check the Crowd@Chinatown map if they plan to visit between Jan 13 and Jan 15, as well as between Jan 20 and Jan 21, police said.
The map, which will go live at 6pm on those dates, will allow people to view real-time crowd levels and avoid crowded areas.
In addition, the police also advised people to consider using Maxwell MRT station as Chinatown MRT station is expected to be crowded.
Police officers, auxiliary police officers and security officers will be deployed in Chinatown to ensure the safety and security of the public, said SPF.
"With large crowds expected, members of the public are also advised to safeguard their belongings and be vigilant against molesters and pickpockets," it added.
Crime prevention measures
- Look after your belongings at all times
- Be cautious when approached by strangers who try to get very close to you
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing excessive jewellery to crowded places
- Ensure your bag is closed at all times and sling it in front of you
- Avoid placing your wallet in your back pocket
- Avoid contact or confrontation with unruly crowdsÂ
- Approach any police officer or dial 999Â for urgent assistance
TEMPLE STREET CLOSURES
Temple Street will be closed to vehicle traffic for the Chinese New Year bazaar during certain periods. They are:
- Mondays to Thursdays:Â 3pm to 11pm
- Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays: noon to midnight
- 10am on Jan 21 to 2am on Jan 22
During the closure, access will only be granted to police and emergency vehicles, police said, adding that 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.
