Overview of the Initiative

In a groundbreaking move to combat peak-hour congestion on public transportation, the authorities will enhance a popular travel incentive scheme in north-eastern Singapore starting January 2. This initiative aims to encourage commuters to alter their travel habits, alleviating the burden on the morning train services.

Fare Rebates and Expanded Applicability

Under this revamped program, public transport users who opt for selected express bus routes instead of the MRT will be eligible for significant fare rebates of up to 80%! For the first time, these discounts will now even apply to train journeys, marking a significant expansion of the initiative.

Eligibility and Peak Hour Adjustments

Commuters traveling from stations in the north-eastern region—such as Punggol Coast, Punggol, Sengkang, Buangkok, and Hougang—can benefit by adjusting their morning schedules to avoid the crowded time slot between 7:15 AM and 8:45 AM.

Additions to the Transport Network

Starting January 2, four new express bus services—City Direct Services (CDS) 675, 676, 677, and 678—will join a total of 11 routes eligible for these incentives. Current services will also expand to include CDS 660M, a variant of the existing route.

Goals of the Initiative

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) clarified that this enhancement aims to manage peak demand on the MRT network and redistribute commuter volume across various transport modes. During the first half of 2024, the North East Line (NEL) registered an average daily ridership of 588,000—a slight decrease from the pre-pandemic figures of 601,000.

Rewards for Regular Commuters

Participants in the TSJ program can earn points for regularly using specified rail lines during the peak hours, which can later be converted into fare credits. Remarkably, as of the last data before the program's temporary suspension in November 2023, about 21,400 participants had collectively earned rebates totaling $66,000.

Integration of Train Journeys into the Rebates

One of the most notable changes is the integration of train journeys into the rebate program. For example, a commuter traveling from Damai LRT station to Promenade MRT station using express bus services could save upwards of $2.37 under the new scheme.

Potential Future Expansions

Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat has indicated possible future expansions of the program beyond the north-eastern region, depending on its success in managing congestion.

Conclusion

As Singapore moves forward with this strategic initiative, commuters can prepare for a smoother and more economical transit experience, making the most of these generous incentives for a limited time.