In Parliament
Written Reply by Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung to Parliamentary Question on Reducing Volume and Frequency of Pre-Recorded Public Announcements on MRT Trains and in MRT Stations
3 November 2020
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Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Transport whether the volume and frequency of pre-recorded public announcements on MRT trains and in MRT stations can be reduced to give commuters a quieter travel experience and minimise their need to speak loudly, thus reducing the spread of airborne viruses.
Reply by Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung:
1. Public announcements on MRT trains and stations serve two essential purposes. First, to announce service-related information such as the upcoming station. Second, to convey important safety and security related issues, such as reminding passengers on what to do when they see suspicious-looking persons or unattended baggage. The volume of these public announcements are calibrated to ensure that announcements may be heard above the ambient noise level.
2. In view of the COVID-19 situation, we would like to remind commuters to refrain from talking to one another or on mobile phones and to wear their masks at all times. Together, we can make the public transport experience a safe and pleasant one for all commuters.