COMMON MRT/BUS TICKETS

Mr Heng Chiang Meng asked the Minister for Communications and Information what is the status of the discussions on a combined fare structure for Mass Rapid Transit/bus commuters and when such new fares will be implemented.

Dr Yeo Ning Hong: Prior to the formation of the Singapore MRT Ltd (SMRT), MRTC and the bus companies, SBS and TIBS, collaborated in the integration of the MRT/bus systems, including the development of a common ticketing system which will allow commuters to use one ticket for travel on buses and trains. With its formation as the operator of the MRT system, SMRT replaced the MRTC in this project.

As Members are aware, in September this year, the operators reported that progress on integration has been good. However, ticketing machines which have to be reliable and sufficiently robust to withstand the heavy wear and tear on buses are not available.

It will probably take at least another two or three years for these machines to be developed and tested. It is the intention of SBS, TIBS and SMRT to implement a common or through ticket, as soon as possible, once reliable and proven equipment are available.