Compensation for Commuters Affected by Train and Bus Service Disruptions

Mr Teo Siong Seng asked the Minister for Transport whether the Ministry will consider converting the penalties levied on rail and bus operators into direct compensation for commuters affected by the service failures.

Today, when there is a prolonged train service disruption, commuters within the affected stations will have their fares waived. Free bus bridging and free boarding of public buses at the affected stations are also provided, as required under LTA's regulatory standards. If penalties are levied on the operators, they will go into the Public Transport Fund to benefit needy commuters, for example, during fare adjustments.

It is not straightforward to identify who should be eligible for compensation, as these could potentially include commuters who detour using alternative routes, as well as those who have to forgo their journey. Nonetheless, the Ministry will study the Member's suggestion further.