Several PMDs seized in LTA enforcement blitz

SINGAPORE — The authorities have impounded several personal mobility devices (PMDs) after conducting over 100 enforcement operations in the first two weeks of February.

In a Facebook post on Friday (Feb 24), the Land Transport Authority (LTA) said its Active Mobility Enforcement Officers conducted the enforcement operations in areas such as Marine Terrace, Bedok North, Yishun, River Valley Road and Alexandra Road.

Several PMD users found riding on the roads had their devices impounded, said the LTA, without revealing the exact number. Bicycles and power-assisted bicycles (also called electric bicycles) are allowed on roads, but PMDs such as electric scooters are not.

“It doesn’t matter how much you jazz it up to look like a bike. Simple rule of thumb, no pedal = no road,” the LTA said in the Facebook post.

The enforcement officers have also been educating users of non-compliant PMDs on the technical criteria of allowed devices, which will come into effect when the Active Mobility Act kicks in. The Act was passed by Parliament last month, putting into effect recommendations made by an advisory panel on cycling and the use of PMDs. It regulates the types of devices permitted, and the behaviour of device users, on public paths.

For example, travelling on footpaths must be kept to a 15kmh speed limit, and 25kmh for cycling and shared paths. The Act also prescribes penalties for reckless riding behaviour, the illegal modification of devices and the sale of non-compliant devices.

“Riding your PMDs on the roads is illegal, as it endangers the rider and other road users. We will continue to conduct enforcement operations and take firm action against any rider found breaking the law,” said the LTA.