Nov 6, 2006
MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT
Network review for a more seamless
journey
Move to improve access, connectivity of bus, train services
By T. Rajan
THE Ministry of Transport (MOT) has begun a review of the land
transport network in its drive to improve access and
connectivity.
One key thrust of the review is to develop the train and bus
networks over the next few years.
In the ministry's addenda to the President's Address at the opening
of Parliament on Thursday, Transport Minister Raymond Lim also
outlined his plans to shorten public transport travel times.
'In a city-state like ours, the vast majority of Singaporeans will
have to rely on public transport as their principal mode of
travel,' he said.
Mr Lim added that building a high-quality and affordable urban
transport system is crucial. As the population grows, future travel
needs will also increase.
To help achieve these goals, the MOT will continue to invest in the
public transport infrastructure, he said.
Mr Lim noted that moves to expand the network are already under
way. He cited the Circle Line as one example of works in
progress.
When it is completed, from 2010 onwards, travel to the city from
the suburban areas like Pasir Panjang will be faster, bypassing
busy stations like City Hall.
Also, the development of Marina Bay has made better rail access to
the area more important.
The Downtown Line, approved last year, will allow commuters to get
across the island faster to places like Marina Centre, he
said.
Also on the cards are two new lines to link the northwestern and
eastern areas of the island to the 60km Downtown
Line.
Mr Lim said the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is conducting
feasibility studies to see how it can link the Bukit Timah
Line and the Eastern Regional Line to the Downtown
Line.
Mr Lim will also be training his focus on improving bus service
quality and concerns over issues like waiting times and
reliability.
The Public Transport Council's new set of Quality of Service
Standards, introduced in July, will help ensure this, he
added.
Mr Lim also said that improving access for the disabled to the
public transport system will continue, with initiatives like buses
with wheelchair access, launched four months ago.
He said: 'The LTA will upgrade commuter and road facilities... to
help not only less mobile Singaporeans move around more easily, but
also the average commuter to have a more seamless journey from door
to door.'
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Copyright © 2006 Singapore Press Holdings Ltd.
