Taxi Crashes Into Historic Temple in Marne Road

A 72-year-old taxi driver is assisting police with investigations following a crash involving his cab into the Far Kor Sun Monkey God Temple on Marne Road. The incident occurred on January 16, 2025, at around 2:50 PM. A 49-year-old female pedestrian was injured in the accident and was taken to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, conscious, by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).

The taxi, believed to belong to the SMRT fleet, reportedly skidded before crashing into the temple. Videos circulating on TikTok captured the aftermath, showing onlookers gathered at the scene. One video, shared by a user, speculated whether it was part of a movie shoot before realizing it was an accident.

The crash caused significant damage to the Far Kor Sun Monkey God Temple, which has been operating since 1959. The temple’s president, Mr. Heng Thiam Swee, described the damage as severe, affecting a metal gate, pillars, and concrete blocks. Inside, lanterns, food packets, and even a horse statue were seen scattered across the floor.

The temple temporarily closed its doors to ensure the safety of its devotees. An Instagram post informed the public that prayers and consultations would be suspended until further notice. Mr. Heng confirmed that repair works began immediately to prevent the roof from collapsing and to prepare the temple for its usual Saturday crowd.

A construction company assessed the temple and deemed it structurally sound. However, Mr. Heng emphasized the urgency of the repairs due to the temple's old structures. The repairs aim to restore the space quickly, as it holds cultural and historical significance for the community.

While the pedestrian was taken to the hospital, one of the temple’s committee members suffered bruises but did not require medical attention. The taxi’s license plate was found detached amid the wreckage, highlighting the impact of the collision.

Police investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the crash. SMRT has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.

The accident has sparked discussions about road safety and the importance of maintaining vigilance, particularly for older drivers. It also underscores the fragility of historical sites and the need for prompt action to preserve them.

This incident serves as a reminder for the public to remain cautious and attentive on the roads, especially during rainy or slippery conditions that increase the risk of skidding. Authorities continue to stress the importance of safe driving practices to prevent such incidents.

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