CCTVs have reduced the number of cases of illegal parking

As reported in The Straits Times, the use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have helped to cut down cases of illegal parking by as much as 90 percent. Motorists and bus operators have noticed improved traffic flow at spots where traffic was previously hampered by illegally parked vehicles, especially near MRT stations.

Since the first parking enforcement CCTVs were erected last year, there are now more than 300 cameras operating at 70 locations islandwide.

The Land Transport Authority's (LTA) group director for transportation and road operations, Dr. Chin Kian Keong, told The Straits Times, "With the use of these cameras, we observe a better journey experience for motorists and bus commuters... The number of illegal parking offences has reduced significantly, from a daily average of 30 summonses per location when the CCTV cameras were first introduced, to just three currently."

Motorists have also seen an improvement in traffic flow, but added that more can be done. Sales Manager Brian Ho, has seen "tremendous" improvement in traffic flow at spots where the cameras are in operation, including Bishan and Upper Serangoon roads. "But there are still many other problematic areas. I hope they will do something about them as well," he added.

Bus drivers, meanwhile, are also seeing the effects of the cameras. SBS Transit senior bus captain Goh Swee Seang said, "It's much easier to drive now".

The LTA are planning to install more cameras, and have announced earlier that cameras will be deployed at 60 more locations over the next two years. Those who park illegally can be fined up to $300 and given up to three demerit points.