Written Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan to Parliamentary Question on LCD Displays at MRT Platforms to Indicate Time Remaining Before Train Doors Close

Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Transport whether the Ministry will consider installing LCD display boards with a timer countdown feature on our MRT platforms to indicate the time remaining before the train doors close, for the safety and convenience of MRT commuters.

Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan:

1.     LTA and the public transport operators had previously studied having countdown timers for MRT platforms. They concluded that such a feature could create unnecessary anxiety amongst commuters and compromise safety, especially if one’s attention is fixated on the timer and not the surroundings.

2.     Instead, our MRT platforms are equipped with audio and visual cues to alert commuters of closing doors. Commuters are familiar with the train chimes and flashing lights. These are features consistently applied to all our MRT lines, and most systems in other cities.