Government’s stat board Public Transport Council (PTC) has raised elderly travel pass by 50% from S$40 a month to S$60 a month. The price increase was opposed by many Singaporean elderly who complained that the price increase is too much. However, PTC defended the fare hike claiming it was only a “2-year trial”:
“A two-year trial, which ended last month, allowed elderly commuters who carried the pass to make unlimited bus and train rides during off-peak hours on weekdays, as well as all day on weekends and public holidays. Elderly commuters can now buy the Senior Citizen Monthly Concession Pass, which includes peak-period coverage – but costs $60.”
PTC claimed that they are not raising fares, but instead shutting down the “trial” travel pass. The PTC then directed the elderly to pay S$60 for a concession pass.
“Senior citizens with concession cards can continue to enjoy a discount of around 25 per cent off adult card fares, depending on the travel distance. Those travelling pre-peak will also enjoy a 25 per cent discount off the lower pre-peak fares. The Senior Citizen Monthly Concession Pass is half the price of its adult equivalent.”