Pedestrians should refrain from listening to music so they can "detect danger or oncoming obstacles moving or on the footpath or shared path", Land Transport Authority (LTA) advised in Singapore's first-ever code of conduct involving pedestrians.

Updated code of conduct

Previously, the code of conduct for users of public paths focused on device users, such as cyclists and e-scooter riders, according to The Straits Times.

In an Aug. 4 Facebook post, LTA introduced the newly-updated code of conduct.

In its post, LTA advised pedestrians to walk on footpaths only, and avoid walking on cycling paths if there is a choice.

The transport authority also advised pedestrians using footpaths or shared paths to keep to the left except when overtaking another pedestrian travelling in the same direction.

In addition, LTA advised pedestrians not to be "phone zombies", saying they should refrain from listening to music or using their mobile phones so they can be alert to their surroundings.

LTA to engage public in creating safer environment

LTA said the recommended guidelines for pedestrians will go hand in hand with existing active mobility regulations for other path users.

It also said it will continue to engage and educate the public on how all can play a part in building "a safer and more responsible path-sharing environment", adding that a campaign encouraging all path users to be "more gracious" will be rolled out at the end of the year.

Rise in accidents from distracted walking

As mobile phone usage becomes more widespread, accidents resulting from distracted walking are on the rise too.

The problem has become so prevalent elsewhere that foreign governments have implemented measures to combat it.

For instance, in China, paths were designated for the "heads-down tribe", a term that describe pedestrians who are glued to their phones while walking.

A Japanese city also banned people from using their mobile phones while walking in public spaces.

Top image via Ang Hin Kee/Facebook