Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Reports of Incidents Involving Intoxicated Passengers on Public Transport

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Transport 

a.     for each year over the past three years, how many incidents involving intoxicated passengers on public transport have been reported;

b.     how many individuals have faced enforcement actions in connection with these incidents; 

c.     how are public transport staff trained to manage intoxicated passengers including deciding whether to admit them onboard; and

d.     whether new measures are being considered to prevent intoxicated behaviours on public transport and enhance commuter safety and comfort.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1.     Passengers who are intoxicated and in an unsuitable condition to travel are prohibited from boarding public transport. An intoxicated passenger who exhibits disruptive behaviour may be asked to alight from the bus or train. Should the passenger be uncooperative, rowdy or aggressive, the Police will be activated. These passengers may also be issued with a Notification of Offence by the operators, and could be liable to a fine.

2.     Over the past three years, there has been an average of around 34 reported incidents each month involving intoxicated passengers on public transport. Most of these cases did not require enforcement action by the rail operators, the Land Transport Authority, or the Police, as the individuals were cooperative.

3.     Public transport staff are trained to manage situations involving intoxicated passengers. This includes identifying signs of intoxication, such as the smell of alcohol, slurred speech, and difficulty in walking or standing, to determine if they are fit to travel on public transport. They are also trained on procedures for handling intoxicated passengers who are causing nuisance or danger to others.