Large crowds & heavy traffic expected in Little India during Deepavali celebrations

Large crowds and heavy traffic are expected in Little India during the upcoming Deepavali celebrations, particularly on Nov. 7, the eve of Deepavali. In an advisory on Nov. 6, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) warned of heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic along Serangoon Road during this period. The police also reminded the public that drinking alcohol in public during restricted hours, misusing sparklers and illegally discharging fireworks are offences. Members of the public are also advised to remain vigilant and safeguard their belongings, especially in crowded areas. Pedestrian crossing closures To facilitate crowd and traffic management, the pedestrian crossing at Birch Road, in front of Anguilla Mosque, will be closed from 4pm on Nov. 7 to 4am on Nov. 8. Pedestrians can instead use the crossings near Kitchener Link or Baboo Lane. The pedestrian crossing at Campbell Lane may also be closed if necessary, with alternative crossings available near Sungei Road or Dunlop Street. Directional signs will be placed at affected crossings, while auxiliary police officers will be deployed to regulate traffic and assist pedestrians. Motorists are also advised to use alternative routes and drive with caution. No public drinking from Nov. 6 to 10 Under the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015, Little India and Geylang are declared as Liquor Control Zones. Public drinking will be prohibited in these areas from 10:30pm on Nov. 6 to 7am on Nov. 10. The boundaries of the Little India Liquor Control Zone (LCZ) are shown in the map below: Photo via SPF The periods during which public drinking is prohibited in LCZs are also summarised in the table below: Photo via SPF Those caught consuming alcohol in public during the restricted hours within a LCZ may face a fine of up to S$1,500. Repeat offenders may face a fine of up to S$3,000, imprisonment of up to 4.5 months, or both. Retailers who sell alcohol outside permitted trading hours may also have their liquor licences revoked. Police warn against illegal fireworks SPF reminds the public that the illegal possession, discharge and importation of fireworks are offences under the Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act 2021. Under the Act, fireworks are classified as explosives, and their illegal discharge poses a danger to the public and their property. A total of 45 people were investigated for fireworks-related offences between January and December 2025. Individuals convicted of such offences may face up to three years' imprisonment and a fine of up to S$50,000, while entities may face a fine of up to S$100,000. Misuse of sparklers can also lead to penalties The police also warned against misusing sparklers, including combining multiple sparklers together, as such acts pose fire hazards and could cause serious injuries. Those convicted of rash or negligent conduct involving dangerous or harmful substances that is likely to cause injury or endanger life may face up to one year's imprisonment, a fine of up to S$5,000, or both. If the act causes hurt to another person, the offender may face up to three years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. Keep your belongings safe The police shared several crime prevention tips for those heading to Little India: Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas. Ensure your bag is closed and sling it in front of you. Avoid keeping your wallet in your back pocket. Those who require urgent police assistance can approach a police officer or call 999.