Chinese New Year bazaar begins in Chinatown, visitors advised to check crowd levels
Specific areas will be closed off if it gets too crowded at the Chinese New Year bazaar in Chinatown.
Pedestrians and shoppers at the Chinese New Year bazaar in Chinatown, Singapore on Jan 12, 2023.
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SINGAPORE: Visitors to the Chinese New Year bazaar in Chinatown can expect large crowds on some days and potential road closures.
The bazaar will take place from Friday (Jan 19) to Feb 9, the eve of Chinese New Year.
On the weekend before Chinese New Year in particular - between Feb 2 and 4 - those planning to head down are encouraged to check real-time crowd levels first using the Crowd@Chinatown map.
"For crowd safety, diversions to access the bazaar may be implemented. If crowd safety thresholds are reached, specific areas will be locked down," said the police in a media release on Friday.
"Members of the public are advised to be patient and follow the instructions of officers. They should not push or attempt to force their way into crowded or closed-off areas."
The Crowd@Chinatown map can be viewed on computers and mobile devices. It will be available from 6pm on Feb 2 to Feb 4. People should avoid the areas marked red on the map and move towards the amber or green areas.
As Chinatown MRT station is expected to be crowded, commuters are advised to consider using Maxwell MRT station.
Police, auxiliary police officers and security officers will be deployed to Chinatown to manage crowds and ensure safety.
The police also reminded people to remain vigilant against the risk of pick-pocketing or molestation.
Individual safety measures
- Look after your belongings at all times.
- Be cautious when approached by strangers who 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.
- Take note of crowd advisories and comply with instructions from officers and security personnel.
- Avoid contact and confrontation with unruly crowds.
- Approach any police officer or dial 999 for urgent assistance.
Anyone with information on suspicious people or activities can contact the police at 999, or send an SMS to 71999. Information can also be submitted online or through the SGSecure App.
TEMPLE STREET CLOSURES
To facilitate the event, Temple Street will be closed to all vehicles during these periods:
- Weekdays (Mondays to Thursdays) – 4pm to 11pm
- Weekends (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays) – 2pm to 11.59pm
- Feb 9, 2024 (Chinese New Year Eve) – 2pm to 1.30am (the following day)
During the road closure period, access will only be granted to police and emergency vehicles.
"Parking restrictions will be strictly enforced, and vehicles found parking and causing obstruction will be towed," said the police.
"Auxiliary police officers will be deployed to assist and direct motorists."
