The Land Transport Authority (LTA) had said that they would be switched on when the need arises, that is, when vehicle speeds drop below 20-30 kmh. Thus, I was surprised to learn that the LTA will be activating these two gantries come April.

I have lived at Upper Boon Keng all my life and I have never seen vehicle speed in the direction heading towards Kallang Bahru drop below 30 kmh. In fact, peak-hour traffic on the two roads is very much less than that on major roads. Even with the introduction of ERP at Kallang Road a few years ago, peak-hour traffic had never been diverted to Upper Boon Keng Road.

Geylang Bahru was extended recently to connect with Upper Boon Keng Road and, till now, the road is mostly empty.

On the contrary, the worst jam the quiet estate sees is in the evening peak period along Sims Avenue and Geylang Lorong 1. Traffic often comes to a standstill due to the traffic lights in close proximity from Lorong 1 to Sims Way.

The LTA should address the prevailing problems before switching on gantries along relatively quiet roads.

Lester Lam Yong Ling