In Parliament
Written Reply by Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung to Parliamentary Question on Unprofitable Bus Services as of July 2020
4 September 2020
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Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Transport
a. how many unprofitable bus services exist as of July 2020; and
b. what is the total subsidy level for unprofitable bus services each year
Reply by Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung:
1. Prior to COVID-19, and as a result of better frequencies and service standards, 345 out of 356 public bus services generate fare revenues that cannot cover their operating costs and require government subsidies. This amounts to a total of about $1 billion per year. With COVID-19, commuter numbers have dropped, and as of July 2020, all public bus services generate fare revenues that cannot cover their operating costs.