27-1-2024 (SINGAPORE) Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat announced that adult ez-link cards not on the SimplyGo account-based system and Nets FlashPay cards can continue to be used for public transport fare payments until at least 2030. This decision aims to sustain the card-based ticketing system for six more years, requiring an estimated $40 million for new equipment, hardware, maintenance, and operating costs.
The government will cover these expenses, ensuring no impact on bus and train fares, Chee stated during an interview at the Ministry of Transport (MOT) headquarters. The transition to SimplyGo, which was halted on Jan 22, faced challenges due to adult passengers’ strong preference for viewing fares charged at payment readers, a feature not available in the account-based system.
Chee explained that all IT systems have a shelf life, prompting the need for upgrades or replacements. The decision to extend the card-based system until 2030 will undergo review later, considering technical challenges hindering SimplyGo from displaying fares charged on payment readers.
MOT and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) declined to disclose the system’s age but affirmed plans to consult widely on future decisions. Unlike the card-based system, SimplyGo processes fare payments on back-end servers, posing technical difficulties in displaying fare information instantly.
Chee emphasized the need for technical solutions and collaboration with government agencies and industry partners to enhance the system’s convenience and encourage more commuters to switch to SimplyGo. However, the initial plan to transition to SimplyGo by June was withdrawn after concerns arose regarding the fare display issue and potential longer queues.
Singapore will now operate three public transport ticketing systems simultaneously, accommodating adult transport cards, concession cards, and SimplyGo. Efforts to integrate the card-based systems will be explored gradually to lower costs and improve efficiency.
While many commuters support the move, concerns remain about the usability and compatibility of SimplyGo, prompting calls for improvements and clearer information dissemination.
