Singapore’s bus and MRT fares are set to increase by 7 per cent starting from 23 December, according to the Public Transport Council (PTC). The fare adjustment will affect adult card fares, with an increase of 10 to 11 cents per journey, while adult cash fares will see a larger increase of 20 cents. Commuters who use concession cards will experience a lower increase of 4 to 5 cents per journey, while cash fares for concessionary bus rides will increase by 10 cents.
The increase comes as part of the 2023 Fare Review Exercise (FRE) and is a response to rising energy prices, core inflation, and strong wage growth in 2022. Despite the increase, it is important to note that the 7 per cent fare adjustment is significantly lower than the maximum allowable quantum of 22.6 per cent.
To provide additional support for concessionary groups, the PTC has announced several measures. The prices of hybrid monthly concession passes, which are valid for both buses and trains, will be reduced by up to 10 per cent. The monthly concession pass for persons with disabilities (PwDs) will also be reduced from $64 to $58, mirroring the price for seniors. Furthermore, a new hybrid monthly concession pass will be introduced for Workfare Transport Concession Scheme (WTCS) cardholders, priced at $96. This pass will offer a $32 discount off the price of the Adult Monthly Travel Pass, with the government covering the cost of the discount.
These changes to the fare structure aim to provide greater support for heavy users of public transport and concessionary groups, such as students, seniors, and full-time National Servicemen. It is estimated that approximately 60,000 existing and new monthly pass holders will benefit from the reduced prices, with potential savings of up to $9.50 per month.
The PTC has requested an additional subsidy of about $300 million from the government to cover the deferred fare adjustment quantum from the 2022 FRE, and the government has agreed to provide this support.
As public transport fares in Singapore increase, it is important for commuters to be aware of these changes and plan their journeys accordingly. Frequently Asked Questions about the fare adjustment have been provided below to address any concerns.
FAQ
1. Why are bus and MRT fares increasing?
The increase in fares is a response to factors such as rising energy prices, core inflation, and strong wage growth in 2022. The fare adjustment aims to ensure the sustainability of the public transport system while balancing the needs of commuters.
2. How much will fares increase by?
For adult card fares, the increase will range from 10 to 11 cents per journey. Adult cash fares will see a larger increase of 20 cents. Commuters using concession cards will experience a lower increase of 4 to 5 cents per journey, while cash fares for concessionary bus rides will increase by 10 cents.
3. Will there be any reductions in fares for concessionary groups?
Yes, to provide greater support for concessionary groups, several measures have been announced. The prices of hybrid monthly concession passes will be reduced by up to 10 per cent. The monthly concession pass for persons with disabilities (PwDs) will be reduced from $64 to $58, matching the price for seniors. Additionally, a new hybrid monthly concession pass will be available for Workfare Transport Concession Scheme (WTCS) cardholders, priced at $96.
4. How many people will benefit from the reduced prices?
Approximately 60,000 existing and new monthly pass holders are expected to benefit from the reduced prices. These changes will provide potential savings of up to $9.50 per month for eligible commuters.
5. Will there be any additional government support?
The PTC has requested an additional subsidy of about $300 million from the government to cover the deferred fare adjustment quantum from the 2022 FRE. The government has agreed to provide this support to ensure the affordability of public transport for commuters.
Sources:
– [Public Transport Council (PTC)](https://www.ptc.gov.sg/)