Transport

Cai Yinzhou raised a question about the possibility of tracking the occupation and employer identity of road users involved in work-related traffic accidents to enable targeted interventions. K Shanmugam responded that the Traffic Police do not collect this data as it is not relevant to investigations. The Ministry of Manpower monitors work-related traffic injuries reported by employers and platform operators. Traffic Police focus their interventions and communications based on the weight of vehicles, which is strongly linked to injury severity and fatality risk in accidents.

Yip Hon Weng asked about the impact of increased electric vehicle (EV) adoption on Singapore’s electricity grid, the status of ceasing internal combustion engine vehicle sales by 2030, and the transition to a car-lite society. Jeffrey Siow emphasized the importance of an accessible public transport network in achieving a car-lite vision while limiting vehicle population through the Vehicle Quota System. He noted that over 80% of new vehicle registrations this year were cleaner-energy models, with plans to end new registrations of internal combustion engine vehicles by 2030. The Land Transport Authority will collaborate with relevant agencies to support EV adoption and ensure the electricity grid can accommodate increased demand.

Cai Yinzhou questioned the Acting Minister for Transport about enforcement operations against non-compliant battery or motor modifications for active mobility devices from 2024 to August 2025. Jeffrey Siow reported that the LTA conducted 15 enforcement operations during this period, investigating 14 retailers. Of these, five were prosecuted, leading to four convictions with fines ranging from $600 to $4,000, while one retailer received a composition sum for non-compliance. Investigations for additional cases are ongoing, with some pending charges and others closed due to insufficient evidence. The LTA plans to continue monitoring and taking action against errant retailers.

Ang Wei Neng asked for updates on the Jurong Region MRT Line (JRL) and the earliest operational date for Phase 1, with the Senior Minister of State for Transport indicating it is over 70% complete and set to open between 2027 and 2029, with more details to come in 2026. Ang Wei Neng raised concerns about residents in Nanyang lacking direct access to the Gek Poh MRT station and requested additional bus services for areas in Jurong West. Murali Pillai acknowledged the concerns, stating the Land Transport Authority (LTA) monitors travel demand and improves services as needed, but emphasized that bus route planning follows the completion of MRT stations.

Ng Chee Meng inquired about the progress of feasibility studies for the Seletar MRT Line, initially announced in 2019, expressing concerns about transport connectivity in the Jalan Kayu area. Sun Xueling confirmed that the studies are ongoing, focusing on land use, engineering feasibility, and environmental impact, and emphasized the importance of thorough planning. She stated that while rail projects require careful consideration, interim measures to improve bus connectivity in the region are being implemented, including new peak hour services and enhancements to existing bus routes. Andre Low raised the issue of overcrowding on the North East Line (NEL) and asked about possibly accelerating the Seletar Line's timeline, to which Sun Xueling reiterated that studies would determine feasibility, with completion expected in phases starting in the 2040s.

Yeo Wan Ling raised concerns about the prioritization of Punggol residents' safety, affordability of autonomous vehicle (AV) rides, and the involvement of transport workers as AV trials are scheduled for late 2025. Edward Chia Bing Hui questioned the key performance indicators for AV success, safety benchmarks, legal liabilities, system-wide benefits, and the impact on driving-related jobs. Sun Xueling responded that AVs will enhance public transport connectivity, create new jobs, and have stringent safety assessments, including real-time monitoring during pilot phases. The government plans to roll out training programs for current transport workers to transition into AV-related roles. Phased AV trials will allow for community engagement and data collection to ensure safety and public acceptance.

Lee Hui Ying questioned whether studies have been conducted on the risks associated with light brightness, flickering, and strobe lights on active mobility devices (AMDs) and whether the Ministry of Transport plans to regulate these lights. Jeffrey Siow acknowledged that while lights enhance safety, certain types can endanger other road users; users must use lights considerately. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) will monitor AMD light usage and public feedback, reviewing guidelines as needed, while promoting safe riding practices through education and enforcement.

Rachel Ong asked if grants could be provided to assist lower-income PMD owners with battery replacement costs, focusing on purchases from LTA-compliant suppliers to enhance safety. Masagos Zulkifli explained that PMDs are general transport devices, unlike personal mobility aids, which are for individuals with mobility challenges. He mentioned that eligible seniors and persons with disabilities can apply for subsidies through specific funds. Additionally, lower-income PMD owners on ComCare can receive cash assistance to help cover battery replacement costs.

Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked about the progress of the Land Transport Authority's (LTA) project to install green roofs on bus stops to reduce heat and improve commuter comfort. Jeffrey Siow reported that LTA has collaborated with the National Parks Board to implement green roofs at 200 bus stops, which can lower ambient temperatures by around two degrees Celsius. The plan includes expanding the green roof project to additional bus stops near residential areas, health institutions, parks, and transport nodes, including those in Hougang, aligning the rollout with upgrades to bus stop shelters.

Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked whether the Public Transport Council (PTC) plans to increase the Morning Pre-Peak Fares discount, currently at 50 cents since 2017, and what considerations would guide any potential increase. Jeffrey Siow responded that the PTC reviews public transport fares annually, assessing various factors like affordability, financial sustainability, and crowding during peak periods. The PTC will announce its decision regarding the 2025 review later this year.