Train operators SMRT and SBS Transit will face stiffer penalties for future train disruptions, after Parliament amended the Rapid Transit Systems Bill to raise the maximum penalty to 10% of the rail network’s annual fare revenue for every incident.
This could mean a substantial increase from the current cap of $1 million per incident.
Last year, SMRT was fined $860,000 for four disruptions, while SBS Transit paid $250,000 for a North-East Line incident.
Penalties paid by the train operators will contribute to the Public Transport Fund, which helps needy households with transport fares.
Other changes to the Bill included granting the Land Transport Authority (LTA) influential power over the train operators’ selection of directors to ensure utmost competency in fulfilling their roles, and the right to develop commuter facilities at MRT stations should it see fit.
The amended Bill also gives authorities access to private land for rail construction and improvement works.
