Aljunied Town Council supports the Government's initiative to create a barrier-free environment for seniors and the disabled. On Jan 27 last year, we launched a masterplan called 'Connecting People and Places @ Aljunied' aimed at transforming the GRC into an elderly-friendly place for all in five years. Our first five pilot Barrier-Free Accessibility projects have been completed and more are in the pipeline.

Meanwhile, we are also reviewing with the Handicaps Welfare Association how best to further improve accessibility by removing any obstacles or obstruction that may impede mobility.

The railings near the lift landings at Block 18, Hougang Avenue 3, were put up about two years ago to prevent cyclists from knocking into residents walking around the lift landings.

This preventive measure was taken after an inconsiderate cyclist pedalled his bicycle near a lift landing and knocked down an elderly resident, leaving her with a fractured bone.

The space between the railings does allow wheelchair users to go through. But as part of our review, we will work with the association to see how we can make it even easier for residents in wheelchairs to do so, such as widening the space between the railings.

As we move towards a barrier-free environment in our estates, we would also like to seek the cooperation of motorcyclists and cyclists not to ride along the walkways and ramps which are meant for pedestrian use.

Such a dangerous and inconsiderate act may result in accidents and cause serious injury or even death to innocent residents and passers-by.

Our walkways must remain safe for use by pedestrians and we will take enforcement action against those who misuse them.

We thank Mr Tay for his feedback and assure readers that we will strive to make our estates barrier free and elderly friendly.

Jeffrey Chua
General Manager
Aljunied Town Council