Singapore to boost investment in transport infrastructure

Illustrative image (Source: Internet)

Singapore (VNA) – The Government of Singapore will continue investing in transport infrastructure to maintain the city-state’s position as a world-class city and key transport node between Asia and the world, Minister of Transport Khaw Boon Wan said on May 9.

The country aims to expand the Changi Airport and build the “next-generation” Tuas seaport, the minister said, adding that aviation and maritime sectors are the “lifelines of Singapore’s economy”, which together contribute more than 10 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) and generate 250,000 jobs.

According to Minister Khaw Boon Wan, the expansion of Tuas port and the building of Changi Terminal 5 will help strengthen Singapore’s edge to seize new opportunities and capture greater growth.

New connections with Malaysia, including the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail, are also underway to facilitate bilateral trade and traveling of the two countries’ people, he said.

Apart from maintaining linkages with the global economy, the transport ministry’s priorities include enhancement plans for public transport and active mobility within Singapore, he added.

The government will increase budget spending for the maintenance of mass rapid transit (MRT) lines to ensure safe traveling for people and prevent overloading.

By 2022, the number of pedestrian overhead bridges with lifts will be tripled, while 50 locations with customized senior-friendly road safety features, also known as the “Silver Zones”, will be put into use in 2023.

Singapore plans to expand cycling networks and bike parking facilities to all Housing & Development Board (HDB) towns by 2030, and introduce a licensing framework for bicycle-sharing operators and mandatory registration for e-scooters by the end of this year.

Minister Khaw Boon Wan said the building of a good infrastructure network will help Singapore reinforce its economy, create more new jobs, and improve the quality of life for people as well as further promote its linkages with countries in the region and beyond.-VNA