Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Engaging Opposition MPs and Grassroots Advisers in Opposition Constituencies on Bus Service Enhancements

Mr Pritam Singh asked the Minister for Transport with regard to the newly announced Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme announced in July 2024 

a.     whether LTA is prepared to engage with opposition Members of Parliament as well as Grassroots Advisers in opposition-held constituencies on bus service enhancements for taxpayer benefit; and 

b.     whether LTA envisages the retention or reintroduction of bus services which may be relatively underutilised but provide convenience to senior citizens especially where new MRT stations have become operational.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1.     As we enhance the bus network under the Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme (BCEP), we will continue to rationalise bus services which have experienced significant drops in ridership, such as long trunk routes that run parallel to new Mass Rapid Transit lines, so that the resources that are freed up can be reallocated to serve other commuter needs.

2.     When reviewing proposed changes to bus services, Land Transport Authority (LTA) takes into account changes in travel patterns among different commuter groups as well as the overall connectivity and resilience of our public transport network. LTA also takes in public feedback about connectivity to key transport nodes and amenities.

3.     LTA will continue to engage Grassroots Advisers, Members of Parliament and other relevant stakeholders when planning bus services, including for initiatives under the BCEP.