Singapore To Strengthen Security Of Public Transport System
Public Transport Security Committee Working With PTOs On Immediate Measures And Will Conduct Comprehensive Security Review Of Transport Network.
The Public Transport Security Committee (PTSC) is doing a joint security review of the Changi Depot with SMRT to determine the underlying cause of the recent security lapse and the immediate remedial measures required there as well as in other train depots. It will also conduct a more comprehensive security review of the public transport network over the next 6 months in light of the recent incident.
Immediate actions taken
Since the incident, the PTSC noted the reports from the public transport operators (PTOs) that they have already taken some immediate steps to enhance security at their train depot locations.
SMRT has increased the number of security personnel and patrols at its depots, and augmented foot patrols with vehicular patrols for greater presence.
Visibility has been improved along the perimeter and concertina wires are currently being installed around the perimeter of all train depots to reinforce the existing fencing.
More CCTV cameras are being installed to increase the coverage of perimeters and to visually inspect the trains as they are launched from the depots daily.
Visitors to SMRT depots continue to be subject to security checks. All SMRT staff and personnel of the security companies employed by SMRT have been instructed to step up vigilance and exercise stricter scrutiny.
In addition, SMRT will be engaging a professional security consultant to conduct a comprehensive audit of its system to ensure that its controls are sufficient and appropriate.
SBST has also increased the number of security personnel and frequency of patrols. Even before the incident, all visitors were already subject to security checks and access was not given to unauthorised persons or vehicles. There are also CCTV cameras installed throughout the premises.
SBST will also be replacing wired fencing around its premises with mesh fencing as an added security measure. Other measures that will be undertaken include the removal of shrubs and hedges along perimeter fencing as well as the placement of concertina wires where needed.
In addition to the above measures which the PTOs have already done, the PTSC is undertaking a joint security review of Changi train depot with SMRT. Based on the findings, the security measures in all depots, including SBST’s, will be reassessed in light of the incident and further remedial measures recommended if necessary.
Comprehensive Security Review of Public Transport Network
Public transport security is an evolving challenge that requires constant review and the involvement of all stakeholders.
Since 2004, the PTSC has conducted several security audits of the public transport system infrastructure to ensure security measures are relevant and effective.
The PTSC fully understands the concerns expressed by many members of the public about the security breach that has happened in the Changi depot, and the importance of ensuring that we have a safe and secure public transport system.
In light of the current security lapse in the SMRT depot, PTSC will be conducting another system-wide security review of the public transport network over the next 6 months. The PTSC takes a very serious view of the security of our public transport system and will improve and enhance security in a risk-based and practical manner.
About the PTSC
The Public Transport Security Committee is a multi-agency body that oversees the security of Singapore’s public transport system. It undertakes comprehensive reviews of the security arrangements and recommends and oversees improvements to the security of the public transport system, including infrastructure such as bus interchanges, MRT stations and depots. The operators remain responsible for the security of their depots and all assets.
Dealing with security threats to the public transport system requires a multi-agency approach. The PTSC, which is chaired by the Chief Executive of LTA, comprises of members from the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Home Affairs, Land Transport Authority, Singapore Police Force, Internal Security Department, Singapore Civil Defence Force, National Security Coordination Centre, Joint Counter Terrorism Centre, SBS Transit and SMRT Corporation Ltd, provides for a holistic approach to address public transport security challenges and threats.
Some measures that the PTSC has put in place during previous reviews include checks of train interiors before they are launched into the network, additional screening at pedestrian overhead bridges to prevent Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) from being thrown on train tracks, removal of litter bins and post boxes from within train stations to prevent parcel bombs from being planted, enhancement of the CCTV surveillance system at MRT stations and trains, enhanced patrols by police officers and the deployment of Transit Security Officers (TSOs) at MRT stations and bus interchanges to conduct security bag checks and security patrols.
Topics: 2010, Asia, Asia Pacific region, cameras, cctv, Changi Depot, concertina wires, Governance, government, holistic approach, IED, improvised explosive devices, moniter, monitor, news, Pacific, PTOs, PTSC, public transport, Public Transport Security Committee, safety, security checks, security lapse, security personnel, Security Review, Singapore, SMRT, society, terror, terrorism, terrorists, threats, train depots, train stations, transport network
Print This Article in Plain Text
|
|
Latest Headlines
- Osama Bin Laden Dead?
- Florida To Share $1 Billion For Gulf Coast Restoration Efforts
- Texas Prays For Rain During Extreme Drought Conditions
- Governor Christie Takes Action To Reduce Diesel Emissions, Improve Air Quality
- Governor McDonnell Outlines Draft Transportation Improvement Program
- Alaska Energy Bill Passes Legislature
- Illinois State Building Receives ENERGY STAR Award
- Homeland Security Begins Using National Terrorism Advisory System
- U.S. Outlines New Health Insurance Options For Graduating College Students
- Electrolux Expands In North Carolina, To Create 200 Jobs In Charlotte
- Virginia Storm Victims To Receive Tax Extension
- U.S. Expands Broadband Investment For Rural Areas To Accelerate Job Creation
- U.S. To Invest $130 Million For Advanced Energy Research
- Michigan Passes “I’m Sorry” Bill
- Kentucky Sells Two State Aircraft To Save Taxpayer Dollars
