The National Parks Board (NParks) will temporarily close access to some parks, and sections of beaches, lawns, and facilities, such as shelters and car parks, when these areas get too crowded.

The Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment (MSE) announced this in a statement on May 19.

This is to ensure that safe distancing can be observed.

These areas will be reopened when they are less crowded.

Members of the public are advised to check the Safe Distance @ Parks portal (safedistparks.nparks.gov.sg) for the latest updates on visitorship levels before heading to parks.

All park visitors are requested to be socially responsible.

Nine individuals were fined for gathering in groups of more than two on May 16, 2021, in parks and beaches.

This was the first day of Phase 2 (Heightened Alert).

Water play areas closed

The MSE statement also added that all water play areas and water recreational facilities in NParks-managed parks and gardens will continue to be closed until June 13, 2021.

This is in line with the tightened Safe Management Measures (SMMs) to reduce interactions in the community.

Visitors are advised to observe SMMs, such as wearing a mask, except when engaging in strenuous exercises or consuming food, drink or medication, as well as keeping to groups of up to two persons.

The public can refer to the NParks website for the latest advisories for gardens, parks and nature reserves in response to the Covid-19 situation.

All photos via NParks Facebook except top photo via