Forum: Technology and more visible policing needed to improve road safety
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
Follow topic:
The article “Injuries, deaths on Singapore’s roads rise in H1 2025; accidents due to red-light violations also up” (Aug 29) highlights a worrying trend which has not been arrested for some time.
With an average of more than three fatalities a week, road safety is an increasing concern for both motorists and pedestrians.
On a recent drive from Changi to Jurong via the PIE and back to the East Coast through AYE-ECP, I observed four accidents in less than two hours – an unusual occurrence in my more than three decades of driving.
Despite the use of technology such as speed cameras and surveillance systems, accident numbers continue to rise. This suggests that enforcement through technology alone may not be sufficient.
In the past, visible police patrols played a stronger role in deterring reckless behaviour, as the presence of patrol cars and flashing lights reminded motorists of rules and encouraged drivers to drive more responsibly.
While increasing patrols will require additional resources, the cost is justifiable when compared with the human and economic toll of accidents. I urge the authorities to consider deploying more patrol cars on the road. With self-driving technology on the brink of becoming reality, robot patrol vehicles could even be an option in the future.
In the meantime, a balanced approach – combining technology with more visible policing – would immediately improve road safety and save lives.
Ben Chen
