Preedee TeoAs Singapore celebrates its 59th birthday this Friday, 9 Aug 2024, areas like Marina Bay and Padang are expected to be crowded with people due to National Day Parade (NDP) celebrations.
If you were lucky enough to get tickets for this celebration, you might be thinking about how to make plans to beat the crowd and enjoy the festivities smoothly. According to a police release, here’s how you can beat the crowds and enjoy the festivities smoothly.
Also read: 15 Birthday Freebies in Singapore to Redeem for a Special Celebration
Expect long queues for security checks at Padang
Image credit: Rogan Yeoh | Unsplash
Arriving early at Padang is crucial to allow enough time for security checks. Minimising personal belongings in your baggage will help speed up the process and ensure a smooth check-in from the gate to your seats.
Security measures
- Containers (100ml capacity or larger) with liquids, aerosols, or gels will undergo additional checks.
- Canned items, like drinks, are prohibited.
- Each ticket holder will receive an NDP Pack, which includes water and light snacks.
- Items such as sharp objects and toy guns are prohibited for safety reasons.
Steer away from crowded areas
Navigating MRT stations
Expect changes to MRT services around Marina Bay. Some station entrances/exits will be closed, and trains might skip stations due to overcrowding.
Crowded spots to watch the celebration
- Esplanade Waterfront
- One Fullerton Waterfront
- Merlion Park
- Marina Bay Sands Waterfront
In addition, to ensure safety, police and auxiliary officers will manage crowds. Please be aware of your surroundings and protect your personal items.
Be aware of road closures
Image credit: Singapore Police Force
Plan your route
Road closures will be in effect to facilitate the event. Only authorised vehicles, police, and emergency vehicles will have access. Expect traffic delays along:
- Battery Road
- Beach Road
- Bras Basah Road
- Collyer Quay
- Guillemard Road
- Hill Street
- Marina Boulevard
- Mountbatten Road
- North Bridge Road
- Ophir Road
- Raffles Avenue
- Raffles Boulevard
- Raffles Link
- Republic Boulevard
- Rochor Road
- Temasek Avenue
- Temasek Boulevard
- Victoria Street
If you have your own transport to get to the event venue, consider alternate routes via Bayfront Avenue or Rochor Road to Temasek Boulevard, and avoid heading to Suntec City and Marina Square from Bras Basah Road, Esplanade Drive, Nicoll Highway, or Raffles Boulevard should
Parking restrictions
Parking along affected roads will be strictly enforced. Illegally parked vehicles or those causing obstructions will be towed.
Leaving the area after the parade
Heavy crowds are expected after the parade, particularly at City Hall, Raffles Place, and Bayfront MRT stations. To avoid delays, use Esplanade, Promenade, Downtown, or Marina Bay stations instead.
Do exercise patience and follow instructions from marshals and police officers to ensure a smooth and safe departure from the event.
Also read: Celebrate Singapore’s 59th National Day With These Limited Edition Menus
Follow these tips for a smooth and enjoyable National Day experience. Happy 59th Birthday, Singapore!
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