Poor Re-surfacing of Roads after Completion of Cable/Pipe Installation Works

6 Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for Transport whether LTA supervises the resurfacing of roads each time contractors have dug holes in the roads to install wires, cables and pipes and, if so, what is the reason for poor re-surfacing of the roads after the works are completed.

Mr Khaw Boon Wan: All contractors are required to reinstate roads after their works, based on standards stipulated in LTA’s Code of Practice for Works on Public Streets. These standards include the International Roughness Index which is an international standard that measures the riding quality of roads. However, LTA has observed through its regular audit checks and public feedback, cases where contractors did not carry out these reinstatement works in accordance to LTA’s requirements. In such instances, LTA will enforce against these contractors and require them to rectify their reinstatement works. These errant contractors will also be fined up to $500 per infringement and penalised with demerit points. Contractors who chalk up more than 200 demerit points a month will be suspended from carrying out any new works. Members of the public can call LTA’s hotline to report instances of poorly resurfaced roads.