Police issue safety and traffic reminders as Little India crowds set to swell on Deepavali eve

Large crowds are expected in Little India on the eve of Deepavali, and police have issued some timely festive reminders: keep an eye on your belongings, check alternative routes and note the hours when public drinking is banned. Do not get so caught up in the celebrations that you forget your wallet — or the rules.

In a statement on Friday (6 November), the Singapore Police Force advised those visiting Little India over the coming weekend to watch their belongings at all times in crowded areas, keep handbags fastened and slung across the front of their bodies, and avoid putting wallets in back pockets. In an emergency, members of the public can approach police officers at the scene or call 999.

Police advised motorists to use alternative routes and drive carefully around Serangoon Road. The pedestrian crossings at Birch Road and in front of Angullia Mosque will be closed from 4pm on 7 November to 4am on 8 November. Members of the public can use alternative crossings near Kitchener Link or Baboo Lane.

The pedestrian crossing at Campbell Lane may also be closed during this period if necessary, police said. Signs at the affected crossings will direct pedestrians to the nearest alternatives. Auxiliary police officers will also be stationed along the relevant roads and at junctions to maintain order and assist the public.

Little India and Geylang are designated Liquor Control Zones under the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015.

Police reminded the public that drinking in public places in Little India will be prohibited from 10.30pm on Friday (6 November) to 7am on Tuesday (10 November).

Those who drink in public places within the zone during the prohibited hours face enhanced penalties. First-time offenders can be fined up to S$1,500 upon conviction. Repeat offenders can be fined up to S$3,000, jailed for up to four and a half months, or both. Retailers that supply liquor outside their permitted trading hours may also have their liquor licences revoked.

Police stressed that they will take firm action against the illegal possession, discharge and import of fireworks. Last year, 45 people were investigated for fireworks-related offences. Fireworks are classified as explosives in Singapore, and possessing, discharging or importing them illegally is an offence. Upon conviction, individuals face up to three years in jail and a fine of up to S$50,000, while entities face a fine of up to S$100,000.

Police also take a serious view of the misuse of sparklers, such as combining several sparklers for use together. Such acts can cause fires and serious injuries to members of the public, police said. If an act is likely to cause injury or endanger human life, offenders can be jailed for up to one year, fined up to S$5,000, or both, upon conviction. If it causes injury, offenders can be jailed for up to three years, fined, or both.