Coordination between LTA and ICA for Toll Collection at Land Checkpoints

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Transport (a) why is there a lack of interagency coordination between LTA and ICA in implementing toll collection at the Causeway checkpoints; (b) whether it is a standard procedure for LTA to monitor and review its projects to look for weaknesses; and (c) whether there is communication to LTA officers at all levels on the requirement of interfacing with other Government departments and agencies.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) had coordinated on the current process which relies on LTA officers stationed in the secondary clearance area to enforce against tolls and fees evasion. This allows ICA officers to focus on immigration and security screening. Having reviewed this process together with ICA, we believe that it can be improved.

The two agencies are now jointly studying the feasibility of lifting the drop-arm barriers at the ICA immigration counter only after tolls and fees have been paid. This is not a straightforward exercise, as there are concerns, such as ICA officers potentially being distracted by this new responsibility and speed of immigration clearance, that have to be addressed.

I assure the Member that LTA regularly reviews its processes to enhance the effectiveness of its operations and in collaboration with other agencies where needed.