Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Inclusion of Service Quality of Public Transport Operators in Fare Review Formula

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Transport 

a.     whether the Public Transport Council will be considering the inclusion of service quality of public transport operators in its fare review formula; 

b.     if so, what are the likely metrics it will consider; and 

c.     if not, why not.

Reply by Minister for Transport S Iswaran:

1.     The Public Transport Council (PTC) has commenced its review of the public transport fare adjustment formula and mechanism. It will review the way fares are currently adjusted, considering the changes in the public transport industry and commuting patterns. In doing so, it will need to strike a balance between maintaining high-quality services, keeping fares affordable, and ensuring the financial sustainability of the public transport system.

2.     As part of the review, the PTC can take into account various parameters including cost, service quality, productivity and other factors. PTC is consulting and engaging key stakeholders, such as commuters, public transport operators, the labour movement and transport experts. PTC will be comprehensive and holistic in its review which is expected to conclude in the first half of 2023.