LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT

LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT

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(Effectiveness as a mode of public transport): **

21.

Mr Liang Eng Hwa asked the Minister for Transport in light of the recent land transport review (a) whether the Ministry has reviewed on the effectiveness of Light Rail Transit (LRT) as a mode of public transport and, in particular, if it has served the commuter needs well so far; and (b) whether there are any plans to make up for the shortcomings of the existing LRT system, if any.

Mr Raymond Lim Siang Keat: The LRT system is intended to provide commuters with an alternative feeder service from major transport nodes such as MRT stations and bus interchanges to their estates. Compared to buses, the LRT is a more efficient form of transport in densely populated towns or areas with high activity levels. The train is also more reliable in its time schedules, and unlike buses, is not subject to delays from congestion on the road.

Currently, we have three LRT systems each serving Bukit Panjang, Sengkang and Punggol, with a service availability of more than 99.5%. The Bukit Panjang LRT was put in place in a built-up HDB town as a feeder system to the MRT network. As for the relatively newer Sengkang and Punggol LRTs, they are integrated with the developments of the towns to enhance their convenience and accessibility to the residents.

One feedback on the LRT is that the stations are spaced relatively further apart than bus stops. In determining where LRT stations are located, LTA takes into consideration the need to maximise accessibility and connectivity for residents in the estates while making sure that the entire system operates optimally and resources are used efficiently. To maximise catchment and accessibility to residents, LRT stations are located at activity centres such as neighbourhood centres where possible. An LRT system with stations too close to each other will compromise the operational speed of the system, thereby reducing its efficiency and the benefits of its services to passengers. A careful balance therefore has to be struck for each LRT system.

The LRT remains a possible transport option in densely populated towns or areas with high activity levels. LTA will continue to keep all options open when it plans the public transport network of any town. Whether it is buses, LRT or a combination of both, LTA will select the most suitable local transport system to support the town, taking into the consideration the land use and ridership in the area.