SINGAPORE: Singapore has seen significant increases in road traffic accidents and rat-related enforcement actions in the first half of 2025, according to recent statistical releases.
Rising Road Traffic Accidents
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) reported that total road traffic accidents increased by 8.9 per cent, rising from 3,507 in the first half of 2024 to 3,818 this year. The number of injuries and fatalities also climbed to 4,939, indicating a concerning trend.
- Fatal accidents: 78, an increase from 70
- Fatalities: 79, up from 72
- Injuries: 4,860, compared to 4,665 last year
Vulnerable road users, particularly motorcyclists and elderly pedestrians, accounted for a large fraction of these statistics. The SPF noted that motorcyclists represented 54.4 per cent of all road deaths, despite a slight decrease in fatalities among this group. In contrast, elderly pedestrian deaths dramatically rose, emphasising the need for ongoing public education.
Increased Enforcement Against Rat Infestation
On a different front, the National Environment Agency (NEA) and the Singapore Food Agency stepped up enforcement efforts against rat-related lapses. In total, roughly 480 enforcement actions were taken, up from 380 last year, due to issues like poor refuse management.
- 210 actions: improper refuse management practices
- Rat burrows: Averaged 5,400 per cycle, a 48 per cent increase
NEA acknowledged that enforcement alone isn’t sufficient for long-term solutions and stressed the importance of proactive measures like proper refuse management. Collaboration with local councils has yielded promising results, leading to a 60 per cent decrease in refuse management lapses in targeted areas.
Community Engagement and Technology
Both agencies are enhancing their approach to ensure public safety and hygiene. The NEA is implementing smart technologies, including CCTV systems, to address littering and improve cleanliness. This year has been touted as the “Year of Public Hygiene”, with movements aimed at enhancing community involvement.
The government is making strides in integrating technology into public services, from autonomous cleaners to artificial intelligence for inspections, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining Singapore’s reputation for cleanliness and public safety.