Introduction

In a revealing TikTok video, a Singaporean student shed light on the staggering costs associated with driving to school in Singapore—amounting to S$20.59, excluding fuel or electricity expenses. This eye-opening calculation has sparked a conversation about transportation choices among students in the city-state.

The Costs of Driving to School

The student, who also creates content on beauty, fashion, lifestyle, food, and travel, recorded her experience after leaving a car park. She began by enumerating the costs incurred due to the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system, which was introduced in 1998 to alleviate road congestion. She detailed, "In the morning, I have to pay for ERP—S$5 for the first charge and S$3 for the second, which totals S$8 already."

After factoring in her parking fee, which she anticipated would be hefty, she continued the video with suspense. She mentioned that she parks her car at school for about four or five hours and was anxious about the final toll. When she arrived at the payment station, she exclaimed, "S$12.59 for just a few hours. That’s crazy!" She then concluded, “So S$12 plus this morning’s S$8… I paid S$20 just to go to school (excluding fuel). The moral of the story is don’t go to school, just stay at home."

Mixed Reactions

However, this proclamation was met with mixed reactions. Many viewers pointed out that the rising costs of car ownership and the comparative affordability of public transportation make a strong case for reconsidering driving. Comments such as "The moral of the story is to take public transport" and "If you're a student, buses or the MRT might be the smarter choice" flooded in.

The Burden of Car Ownership

It’s important to note that owning a car in Singapore isn’t just an expense but also a significant financial commitment. From certificate of entitlement (COE) costs to insurance, maintenance, and taxes, the total expense can quickly escalate. This has led many to argue that owning a car can often be more of a liability than an asset, especially for students and young professionals who may not have a high enough income to justify such costs.

Broader Implications

As discussions evolve, it became evident that this conversation isn’t just about personal finance; it highlights broader social issues. With Singapore being one of the most densely populated cities in the world, alternatives such as cycling or using public transport align with Singapore's sustainability goals, which aim to reduce road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this student's experience not only underscores the hefty costs of car ownership but also ignites a larger discourse on the transportation choices available to Singaporeans. As the city continues to grow and evolve, it may become increasingly crucial for students to seek out more cost-effective and environmentally-friendly ways to commute. Is it time to leave the car behind and embrace the bus, train, or even a bike? The conversation continues.