Roads around Suntec City to be closed for IMF/World Bank meetings13 August 2006 1811 hrs (SST) 1011 hrs (GMT)
SINGAPORE : Starting from September 10th until the 20th, access in and around the Suntec City area will be restricted when road closures take effect because of the IMF/World Bank meetings.
At least three roads will be completely shut and eight other roads will be partially closed.
Even before motorists drive into Suntec City, they are likely to see bright neon signs advising them which roads are affected by the road closures.
The perimeter of roads around Suntec City will be effectively closed. Nicoll Highway going to the city will be shut down, starting at the Republic Avenue junction and the portion of Raffles Boulevard between Suntec City and One Raffles Link will also be closed.
There will not be any access to Temasek Boulevard as well. Ng Guat Ting, Commander, Traffic Police, said: "Certain roads are closed and lanes as well to facilitate security measures as well as movement of delegates. Congestions and delays are expected we seek public's cooperation and understanding to ensure that everyone's security is not compromised."
"For me I think I will park somewhere further a bit so I walk along the road here or tunnels," said one motorist.
"If they can arrange for more public transport and close up these roads and divert people to take public transport to MRT stations, I think it'll be a better alternative," said another.
As the meetings draw nearer, more directional signs will be posted and officers deployed.
Police say the best way to get around is using public transportation but for those who have to drive to Suntec City, it is worthwhile to take some time to plan the route.
They can use websites such as the Singapore Police Force
website to help them decide which alternate roads to take.
And on September 1st, pamphlets with maps of the affected roads will be available at selected petrol stations.
The publications are sponsored by Shell, Exxon and SPC.
Some bus routes will also be diverted and some lanes closed on other roads around the city area near Suntec complex.
The affected roads are Bras Basah, St Andrew's, Stamford, Beach, Raffles Avenue, Esplanade Drive and Coleman Street. And because of the expected congestion, motorists are likely to see a longer travelling time. - CNA/ch