SINGAPORE : With the likes of world leaders like Tony Blair and
Jacques Chirac coming to Singapore for the 117th IOC Session,
security will be an important factor.
And Singapore's security agencies are leaving no stones unturned
for a smooth and orderly session.
More than 2,000 Police, SAF and Civil Defence officers will be
deployed for security and traffic operations for the week-long
events.
Police also stress that no permits will be issued for outdoor
marches or processions, and a reminder that it is against the law
to do so without a permit.
The Raffles City Convention Centre will be the focus of activity
for the IOC Session.
And with political leaders and media personnel expected, elaborate
security arrangements have been put in place.
From 11pm on July 1, all vehicles entering the basement car park of
Raffles City will undergo security checks.
Likewise, for vehicles entering the Esplanade on July 5 for the
official opening ceremony.
To facilitate the checks, one lane of Bras Basah Road, Stamford
Road and Beach Road nearest to Raffles City will be closed.
Motorists headed towards Chinatown or Shenton Way are advised to
avoid Bras Basah Road, and use Victoria Streeet or Hill Street
instead.
Senior Assistant Commissioner Aubeck Kam, Director of Operations at
the Singapore Police Force, said: "Our concern is that for
motorists who are able to plan their journeys ahead... they could
avoid going through the areas so as not to contribute to the
congestion.
"The second measure we would like the public to be aware of is that
the Raffles City Shopping Centre remains open but as they enter in
for security purposes they may be subjected to checks.
"We believe we have a good security plan in place and we look
forward to welcoming the delegates."
Singaporean motorists will have to put up with some additional
inconveniences on July 2 and July 9.
That is because the Singapore Armed Forces will also be conducting
rehersals for the National Day Parade and National Education
Show.
As a result, several roads surrounding the Padang area will also be
closed on these two days to facilitate the rehearsals.
Traffic Police have also put up signs on lamp-posts to help
motorists plan their journey into the city during this period. -
CNA/de