Measures to Alleviate Impact of Increase in Bus Fares

Mr Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Transport what measures have been and continue to be taken since 2011 to cushion and help alleviate the impact of the increase in bus fares in recent years.

Mr Lui Tuck Yew: In considering public transport fare adjustments, the Public Transport Council ensures that fares remain affordable for commuters. Financially vulnerable commuters are aided by public transport concessions while frequent commuters can cap their expenses through monthly passes. In 2011, senior citizen concessionary fares were extended to allow concessionary travel for the entire day. In 2013, the existing concession schemes for students, senior citizens and full-time National Servicemen were significantly enhanced. In addition, children below seven got to travel for free and a new Adult Monthly Travel Pass was introduced. The Government also funded two new concession schemes to benefit lower-wage workers and persons with disabilities.

This year, fares will remain unchanged for more than 1.1 million commuters. These include senior citizens, persons with disabilities, lower-wage worker and commuters travelling on monthly travel passes.

The Government also provides additional assistance to needy families through public transport vouchers. 200,000 public transport vouchers of $20 value were made available in 2011, while 250,000 public transport vouchers of $30 value were made available in 2014 and this year.