Written Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan to Parliamentary Question on Measures To Increase Security At MRT Stations Near Large Scale Event Venues

Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Transport 

a.     what measures will be implemented to increase security at MRT stations around and near venues which host big events such as the National Stadium, have heavy pedestrian traffic or are near vital facilities such as Changi Airport;and 

b.     whether baggage scanners will be introduced at all MRT stations. 

Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan:

1.     The Public Transport Security Committee (PTSC), a multi-agency body led by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), constantly reviews security threats to our public transport network, and recalibrates the security measures as necessary. Our risk-based approach seeks to strike a balance between ensuring security and facilitating commuter flows and public transport operations. 

2.     A multi-layered set of measures is currently in place. The Public Transport Operators (PTOs) engage security guards to patrol MRT stations and bus interchanges. This is supplemented by CCTV surveillance. Police officers from the Public Transport Security Command (TransCom), as well as officers from other Police units such as the Emergency Response Teams, and Special Operations Command also conduct patrols. Security exercises involving the relevant agencies are conducted regularly. 

3.     Whenever there are major events taking place near an MRT station, Police works with the PTOs and LTA to step up security within the MRT station and also the surrounding areas. 

4.     During periods of heightened threat, additional security measures may be deployed. One such measure the PTSC is considering is the deployment of screening equipment, such as baggage scanners, at MRT stations.  

5.     Commuters also play an important role in ensuring the safety and security of our public transport system, by cooperating when stopped for security checks, and by looking out for and reporting suspicious persons and unattended items to the authorities. Members of the public should also not leave their belongings unattended in MRT stations and trains, so as to not cause unnecessary public alarm and inconvenience.