PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM (Steps to improve)

Mr S. Chandra Das asked the Acting Minister for Communications what additional steps will be taken to improve the public transport system especially buses in view of the Government policy to curb motor-car ownership.

Dr Yeo Ning Hong: My Ministry is presently studying various proposals to improve our public transportation. Firstly, the number of buses during the short "peak within the peak" period in the mornings and evenings can be increased slightly. This can be done either by SBS putting more buses on the road or introducing more Scheme B services to help take some of the load off SBS during these peak hours. Secondly, we will also consider the use of more bus lanes to help speed up travel by bus and improve its regularity. Thirdly, for those who would like a higher level of comfort and convenience and are prepared to pay more, we are examining the possibility of encouraging taxi pools, to carry commuters to work and back on a fixed monthly contract basis. Our preliminary assessment indicates that both car owners and taxi-drivers might find this to be of mutual advantage. Such a service would be very much like that provided by the school mini-buses which provide door-to-door service for school children for a fixed monthly sum. The difference will be that the taxi provides an air-conditioned ride, with a shorter waiting period because it carries 4 passengers only. For the taxi driver there is the assurance of a basic monthly revenue from this fixed morning and evening service leaving him free to earn more during the rest of the day. The ROV can provide a central processing facility to match operators and commuters who are interested in joining the scheme. Details are now being worked out. This scheme can also be extended to air-conditioned mini-buses.

Fourthly, the number of taxis will be increased gradually to match increasing demand. A Taxi Task Force has also been set up by my Ministry to carry out a thorough review to improve the taxi service. The recommendations can be expected early next year.