The Car-Free Sunday initiative returned to the roads of Singapore after a break of two months with an extended route and longer road closure hours.
A stretch of 5.5 km around the civic district and Central Business District was closed on Sunday between 8 am and 11 am. Last time, only 4.7 km was included for the Car-Free Sunday initiative.
People were seen with their bicycles, inline skates and pets in tow as they participated in different activities like cycling and mass workouts.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), the organizer of the event, said it wants to encourage more people to engage in community events and other purposes. According to them, the roads are not only for driving but they can be utilized for other events as well.
On the other hand, the Land Transport Authority said it wants to reinforce safety messages to cyclists and users of personal mobility devices like e-bicycles and e-scooters through this event.
Some of these devices were also available for members of the public to try out at the event.
The National Parks Board also organised walking trails along Ann Siang Hill and Telok Ayer Green for the first time. The participants can learn about the lives and trades of the early immigrants in Singapore from this event.
The initiative also includes other events which were organised by volunteers, such as those from Thian Hock Keng temple in Telok Ayer Street. Guided tours were given to people to explain the significance of the island's oldest and most important temple that belongs to the early Fujian community in Singapore.
Members of the public were asked to contribute their suggestions and feedback for activities and programme to be included in the upcoming Car-Free Sundays by URA.
A Car-Free Sunday is generally held on the last Sunday of every month. Reports say the second edition of this initiative will end in April 2017.
