SINGAPORE - Despite the slight drizzle, the Civic District was abuzz with life on Sunday (Nov 27) morning - not with vehicles but many people inline skating, cycling and taking part in mass workout sessions, as well as enjoying trishaw rides and music performances.
They were part of the refreshed Car-Free Sunday SG, which returned in October after a brief hiatus with more roads closed for use by cyclists, joggers and pedestrians.
One of the highlights at the event - typically held from 8am to about noon on the last Sunday of every month - was six trishaws making their debut, an effort to cater to those who are not as mobile, like the elderly.
Mr Lawrence Wong, National Development Minister, kicked off this segment by ferrying Mr Tan Jin Kiat, a 74-year-old Sasco Senior Citizens' Home resident, from outside the National Gallery and around the Civic District for about 15 minutes.
Mr Han Jok Kwang, 62, who is funding the provision of the trishaw fleet, said the Civic District is "rich in memories for the pioneer generation".
"I hope that the trishaws can encourage more from that generation to come and enjoy the place," said the avid cyclist, who also took his 85-year-old mother for a ride on the trishaw. "I just wanted to find a way for the elderly to participate in this car-free event."
The public also enjoyed new activities such as the Central Singapore CDC's Farmers' Market at Queen Elizabeth Walk selling local and organic produce, as well as a netball carnival.
The monthly programme had returned in October after being piloted from February to July. It was expanded from the Central Business District (CBD) and Civic District areas into the Telok Ayer conservation area.
The second run stretches to 5.5km from 4.7km previously, with additional road closures affecting McCallum, Amoy, Boon Tat, Telok Ayer and Stanley streets. It will continue until April next year (2017).
Over at Telok Ayer on Sunday, an open microphone stage was set up for participants to perform, while others explored the trades and lives of Singapore's early immigrants during a historic tour along Ang Siang Hill and Telok Ayer Green.
Some also had breakfast at cafes along Telok Ayer Street and Amoy Street which opened earlier from 8am.
