Singapore returns to 'Car-Free Sunday' for second run

Singapore, March 27: Cyclists, walkers and joggers took to the roads yet again as Singapore's Car-Free Sunday returned for its second run with extended hours and routes.

Under the initiative, planned for every last Sunday of the month, roads in the civic district and parts of the central business district are closed to vehicular traffic, media reported.

The car-free initiative is part of a six-month pilot, which started in February. Authorities have said the initiative may be expanded if the response from the public is good.

The car-free stretch was expanded this time to include Esplanade Drive, forming a 5-km route, together with St Andrew's Road, Stamford Road, Fullerton Road, Shenton Way and Robinson Road. The previous route was about 4.7 km long.

In response to public feedback, the roads were also closed at a later time and for a longer duration - from 7.30 a.m. to 10.00 a.m., instead of 7.00 a.m. to 9.00 a.m.

This time, participants were also allowed on personal mobility devices like electric scooters and hoverboards.

IANS