SINGAPORE — A night market spilling onto a cycling path at Hougang Street 61 has ignited a fiery online debate about cyclist accommodation, especially with recent laws penalizing riders on pedestrian walkways.
A July 23 online post showing a night market blocking a dedicated cycling path has sparked a community debate on cyclist rights and responsibilities.
- A night market at Hougang Street 61 is accused of obstructing a cycling path.
- Online discussions highlight recent laws restricting cyclists from pedestrian paths.
- Some users advocate for cyclists to dismount and adapt, while others defend the need for clear bike lanes.
- Regulations for night market setups on paths remain unclear.
Should cyclists have to dismount when night markets block their paths? This question is at the heart of a lively online discussion, fueled by a recent post showcasing makeshift stalls from a pasar malam (night market) occupying a cycling lane. The image, shared on July 23, also pointedly noted that the adjacent pedestrian path remained clear, a stark contrast that struck a nerve with many.
The post, titled “The cycle paths that ‘entitled’ cyclists complain about,” quickly garnered over 300 upvotes and more than 100 comments on a popular Singaporean subreddit. It depicted the scene at Hougang Street 61, a known spot for temporary markets, where the cycling path was lined with stalls, forcing potential disruption.
The situation immediately sparked a polarized discussion. Some users found humor, with comments like, “Start of a new sport: bicycle hurdles,” and a sarcastic query, “Have you tried cycling over the tables?” Others expressed frustration with the perceived double standard, noting, “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?”
Others took a more accommodating stance, suggesting that temporary events like night markets necessitate compromise. One commenter explained the market’s placement, noting the lack of alternative space. “This pasar malam is situated between the road to the right and a carpark/shops to the left, no space to move it behind,” they stated.
Adapting to the conditions
Some users argued that all parties, including cyclists, should adapt. “Given the area is tented, I’d assume the foot path and cycle path are now taken over by the pasar malam,” one user commented. “I’d expect somebody jogging through there to be prepared to walk. I’d expect cyclists to prepare to dismount.”
Another user emphasized the community aspect of the market: “This pasar malam serves the neighbourhood, many people, families etc and all you care about is your cycling?” They added, “Pasar malam should have priority. Dismount from your bike and push. Soak in the atmosphere while you still can.”
The rules and regulations for night market setups, as outlined by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), do not explicitly clarify whether tables and chairs are permitted on pedestrian or cycling paths. SCDF had not responded to queries regarding this matter by press time.
