Pasar malam stalls block cycling path, sparks online debate

A post about a pasar malam (night market) obstructing a cycling path has ignited heated debate about how much cyclists should accommodate others, in light of recent laws restricting cyclists from using pedestrian paths.

On July 23, a netizen shared a photo entitled "The cycle paths that 'entitled' cyclists complain about", alluding to past criticisms directed at cyclists fined for riding on pedestrian paths, on the subreddit r/singapore.

It showed a cycling path lined with makeshift night market stalls, while the pedestrian path next to it remained unobstructed. Several users identified the location as Hougang Street 61, a regular venue for night markets.

The post quickly gained traction, gathering over 300 upvotes and more than 100 comments, and sparked a discussion on when cyclists have the right of way.

'Have you tried cycling over the tables?'

Some saw the humour in the situation. "Start of a new sport: bicycle hurdles," commented ZealousidealImage891.

"Have you tried cycling over the tables?" asked MAMBAMENTALITY8-24. "Also why never ride on the road so that everyone can hate on you for slowing down their car?"

Other commenters defended cyclists: "Cycling is meant to be a car-lite alternative to public transport or a private car.

"If people are so upset about cyclists riding on pavement and on roads, with the newly enforced rules on sticking to a bike path whenever available, why can't they have the decency to at least not block the bike path?"

'Pasar malam should have priority'

Others felt that night markets are temporary fixtures, and compromises need to be made by all parties - pedestrians, cyclists and market patrons alike.

One user commented: "This pasar malam is situated between the road to the right and a carpark/shops to the left, no space to move it behind, unfortunately. Previously, there were no tables and the cycling path was clear but this time they decided to put some."

Redditor stevekez said: "Given the area is tented, I'd assume the foot path and cycle path are now taken over by the pasar malam. I'd expect somebody jogging through there to be prepared to walk. I'd expect cyclists to prepare to dismount. I'd expect patrons to prepare to have people in their way when buying food.

"Adapt to the conditions in front of you."

TemporaryEfficient73 said: "This pasar malam serves the neighbourhood, many people, families etc and all you care about is your cycling?"

"Pasar malam should have priority. Dismount from your bike and push. Soak in the atmosphere while you still can. Don't be chronically in a hurry to become another soulless city," said 5DollarBurger.

According to the rules and regulations for the set-up of night markets outlined by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), it is unclear if such markets are allowed to set up tables and chairs on pedestrian or cycling paths.

SCDF had not responded to The New Paper's queries by press time.

LTA responds to media queries

A spokesman from the Land Transport Authority (LTA) told TNP on July 28 that the obstruction has been removed, noting that under the Street Works Act, it is an offence to place articles on a public street that obstructs or inconveniences public access.

"Following the feedback, LTA conducted checks at the pasar malam at Hougang Street 61 and observed that the tables have since been removed.

"We have also reminded food stall operators that placing items that block public walkways is an offence. Enforcement action will be taken if there are any breaches of our regulations."

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include a statement from LTA.