Singapore to boost investment in transport infrastructure
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.
Singapore (VNA) – The Government of Singapore will continueinvesting in transport infrastructure to maintain the city-state’s position asa world-class city and key transport node between Asia and the world, Ministerof 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 andmaritime sectors are the “lifelines of Singapore’s economy”, which togethercontribute more than 10 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) and generate250,000 jobs.
According to Minister Khaw Boon Wan, the expansion of Tuas port and thebuilding of Changi Terminal 5 will help strengthen Singapore’s edge to seizenew opportunities and capture greater growth.
New connections with Malaysia, including the Kuala Lumpur-Singaporehigh-speed rail, are also underway to facilitate bilateral trade and travelingof the two countries’ people, he said.
Apart from maintaining linkages with the globaleconomy, the transport ministry’s priorities include enhancement plans forpublic transport and active mobility within Singapore, he added.
The government will increase budget spending forthe maintenance of mass rapid transit (MRT) lines to ensure safe traveling forpeople and prevent overloading.
By 2022, the number of pedestrian overhead bridges with lifts will betripled, while 50 locations with customized senior-friendly road safetyfeatures, also known as the “Silver Zones”, will be put into use in 2023.
Singapore plans to expand cycling networks and bike parking facilitiesto all Housing & Development Board (HDB) towns by 2030, and introducea licensing framework for bicycle-sharing operators and mandatoryregistration for e-scooters by the end of this year.
Minister Khaw Boon Wan said the building of agood infrastructure network will help Singapore reinforce its economy, createmore new jobs, and improve the quality of life for people as well as furtherpromote its linkages with countries in the region and beyond.-VNA
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