SINGAPORE, Nov 11 — Tokyo’s famous Shibuya Crossing is coming to Joo Chiat — Singapore-style.

From November 16, pedestrians at the busy junction of Joo Chiat Road and East Coast Road will be able to cross diagonally while traffic stops in all directions, under a three-month trial aimed at improving road safety, Singapore-based media organisation CNA reported today.

But there is a catch: motorists and pedestrians could face longer waiting times, while a right turn from East Coast Road into Joo Chiat Road will be permanently banned.

The experiment is a rare one for Singapore, which currently has just one scramble crossing, near Lau Pa Sat at the junction of Robinson Road and Boon Tat Street.

Similar trials near Orchard Road in 2006 and 2017 were not made permanent.

Marine Parade-Braddell Heights MP Goh Pei Ming told CNA the latest initiative was partly driven by safety concerns at the popular Katong intersection.

“Because this area is popular, this intersection is often busy. I have also observed instances where turning vehicles almost hit pedestrians,” he said.

The idea came from a grassroots leader and was developed over months of discussions involving community representatives and the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

Under the new arrangement, pedestrians will get a dedicated crossing phase, allowing them to walk in any direction, including diagonally, while all vehicles remain stationary.

LTA will deploy wardens and install advance signs to help road users adjust.

Still, Singapore’s answer to Shibuya may require some patience.

“While the new crossing arrangement will improve pedestrian convenience and safety, it may result in longer waiting times for both motorists and pedestrians,” LTA cautioned.

Transport economist Walter Theseira told CNA such crossings could improve the pedestrian experience and potentially benefit businesses by attracting more foot traffic.

The neighbourhood has already flirted with going car-free. On October 3, a six-hour closure of part of Joo Chiat Road drew more than 5,000 people.

LTA will monitor traffic and pedestrian conditions throughout the trial before deciding whether to retain the crossing.

For Goh, the ambition goes beyond traffic management.

“If successful, the scramble crossing can become another little uniqueness of Katong-Joo Chiat that keeps it distinctive, exciting and welcoming for all,” he said.