The city-state, known for imposing stiff fines for littering and spitting in public, said jaywalkers caught taking short cuts will face fines of up to S$500 (US$285) for their first offence.

They could also could wind up in court and be given penalties twice that or sentenced to three months in jail.

Repeat offenders could face a maximum $2000 fine or six months in jail.

"This new offence was recently introduced in the Road Traffic Act, to deter jaywalking and to ensure public safety at bus interchanges and terminals," the Land Transport Authority said on its website.

"This was so as there were many accidents involving jaywalkers at bus interchanges."

Four people have been killed and 34 others injured in jaywalking accidents at bus stations in the last three years.
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