Extension of Free Pre-peak Travel Scheme

Mr Gan Thiam Poh asked the Minister for Transport whether the Ministry will continue with the free pre-peak travel scheme for the MRT and make it a permanent scheme.

The Senior Minister of State for Transport (Mrs Josephine Teo) (for the Minister for Transport): Mdm Speaker, the free pre-peak travel trial was extended until 23 June 2015. The ratio of morning peak commuters to pre-peak commuters heading to the city has been sustained at around 2.1, compared to 2.7 prior to the trial. This translates to a 7%-8% shift since the trial started. A survey by LTA showed that the lack of flexible work arrangements may be a reason why the shift has not been more pronounced. To address this, we have been working with employers in the city through the Travel Smart programme since July last year. Forty-three companies have joined the programme so far. We will continue to evaluate the free pre-peak trial, along with the Travel Smart programme, before deciding if the scheme should be extended or made permanent.

2.13 pm

Mdm Speaker: Order. End of Question Time.