In a recent media interview, Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow highlighted major developments in Singapore’s public transportation system and introduced ambitious plans for future improvements.
Fines and Cooperation with Transport Operators
Mr Siow addressed the issue of penalties for public transport operators, particularly following the announcement of a S$3 million fine on SMRT for a disruption along the East-West Line. He pointed out that while fines are a mechanism to hold operators accountable, collaboration is crucial for enhancing the overall system.
- Fines are designed to impact operators financially, which affects their ability to invest back into services.
- Transport agencies are focusing on aligning operators’ interests with the larger goal of improving public transport.
Siow also noted significant improvements in rail reliability, boasting a rise from a mean distance between failures of 67,000 km in 2012 to an impressive 2 million km today.
Future of Autonomous Vehicles
In exciting news for tech enthusiasts, Singapore is gearing up for a “really big push” for autonomous vehicles (AVs). According to Mr Siow, Singaporeans can expect to see numerous AVs on the roads within the next five years—a potentially transformative change for public transport.
- Initial AV services will likely operate on fixed routes within Housing Board estates.
- The government’s plan includes deploying AVs extensively in suburban areas, enhancing connections to transport hubs.
Mr Siow explained that the introduction of AVs could address manpower shortages in bus services, which currently require extensive training for drivers. This innovation is expected to make operations more flexible and efficient.
Safety and Regulations
While the excitement around AVs grows, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is prioritising safety in their rollout. Although trials of AVs have taken place, private ownership remains prohibited to ensure that safety protocols are adhered to before a wider launch.
Important points regarding AV deployment include:
- Planned pilot projects starting mid-2026 with smaller buses.
- Regulatory focus on public acceptance and operational safety.
Implications for Public Transport
As AVs become more integrated into the public transport network, Siow noted that this might shift perceptions about personal vehicle ownership, potentially impacting the Certificate of Entitlement system in Singapore.
“In the long run, we may need to rethink the future of driving and the jobs associated with it,” he said, alluding to the need to work with transport workers impacted by these changes.
With these innovative developments on the horizon, Singapore is clearly positioning itself to lead in the evolving landscape of public transport.