Singapore needs to strike a balance between affordability and long-term fiscal sustainability of its transport system, said Acting Minister for Transport Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.
Although spending on transport has doubled over the last 10 years, from $5.4 billion in 2009 to $11.5 billion in 2019, planners have taken steps to reduce costs through innovative construction methods such as the East Coast Integrated Depot, which is the world’s first integrated multi-level MRT and bus depot facility, said Dr Balakrishnan. He added that the Government will continue to keep fares affordable through concessions, and fund all infrastructure costs and provide operating subsidies.
During the Ministry of Transport’s Committee of Supply debate, other initiatives and projects were also announced:
- Opening of Jewel Changi Airport on 17 April 2019
- Renewal of Changi Airport Terminal 2
- Launch of Maritime Drone Estate to test innovative maritime drone applications
- Launch of SimplyGo with Mastercard for a seamless commute
- Trial of designated priority train cabins for seniors, families, persons with disabilities
- Environmental-friendly public buses by 2040
- Wheelchair accessibility on all buses by 2020
- Stroller restraint system on all buses by 2020
- 20 more Silver Zones across Singapore by 2020
As part of the Land Transport Master Plan 2040, the Government will also continue to invest and prioritise a seamlessly integrated public transport network. The target is for commuters to complete a 20-minute ride to their nearest neighbourhood centre and a 45-minute journey into the city, by 2040.
