Singapore police close Birch Road crossing as Little India braces for Deepavali eve crowds

The pedestrian crossing at Singapore’s Little India district on Campbell Lane may be closed if required for Deepavali celebrations between 4pm on November 7 and 4am on November 8, 2026. — AsiaOne pic

First Published: Saturday, 07 Nov 2026 12:24 PM MYT

SINGAPORE, Nov 7 — Large crowd and heavy vehicular traffic are expected in Little India on the eve of Deepavali (November 7).

The police have put in place measures, including closure of at least one pedestrian crossing, to ensure the safety of pedestrians and road users.

They said on Friday (November 6) that the pedestrian crossing at Birch Road, in front of Anguilla Mosque, will be closed from 4pm on Saturday to 4am on Sunday, adding that the pedestrian crossing at Campbell Lane may also be crossed, if required.

“These closures are to ensure crowd and traffic management, for the safety of pedestrians and road users.”

The nearest alternate pedestrian crossings are near Kitchener Link or Baboo Lane, and near Sungei Road or Dunlop Street respectively.

There will be directional signs displayed at all the affected pedestrian crossings to guide members of the public to the nearest alternate pedestrian crossing.

Auxiliary police officers will also be deployed along the affected roads and junctions to regulate traffic and assist members of the public.

The police also reminded members of the public to safeguard their belongings, especially in crowded areas, and exercise vigilance.

They can do so by ensuring that their bags are always closed and slinged in front.

Errant retailers who supply liquor beyond the permitted trading hours during the Deepavali celebrations in Singapore may have their liquor licences revoked. — AsiaOne pic

Members of the public are also reminded that Little India and Geylang are declared as liquor control zones, where no public drinking is allowed from 10.30pm on November 6 to 7am on November 10.

Those found doing so during the prescribed no drinking period will face enhanced penalties, the police warned.

They also reminded members of the public not to illegally possess or discharge fireworks as such actions could pose a danger to the public and their properties.

Similarly, those who misuse sparklers, such as combining multiple sparklers together at once will be liable for the offence of rash or negligent conduct with respect to dangerous or harmful substances. — AsiaOne