Singapore SimplyGo Implementation Delayed Amid Commuter Concerns
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) in Singapore has decided to delay the full implementation of SimplyGo for adult public transport fares from the originally planned date of June 1. This postponement follows concerns raised by commuters.
Additionally, Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat has announced that the government will allocate S$40 million to extend the use of Ez-link cards and Nets FlashPay cards for adult commuters. This action deviates from the initial plan to phase out these systems in 2024. LTA is under the responsibility of the Singapore Ministry of Transport (MOT).
The decision to postpone SimplyGo’s rollout comes just two weeks after the LTA’s announcement. They stated that Nets FlashPay and Ez-link non-concession adult cards would no longer be accepted for public transport payments starting June 1. These cards are generally known as known as card-based ticketing cards. Unfortunately, no specific timeframe for the delay has been provided.
Local media reported that the allocated S$40 million will focus on upgrading aging hardware. Subsequently, LTA will use some of the funds to to maintain the existing transport payment system options.
Singapore Transport Minister acknowledges SimplyGo concerns
Minister Chee Hong Tat acknowledged commuters’ concerns about SimplyGo. Most commuter concerns their inability to check card balances and fare deductions at MRT fare gates and bus card readers. Commuters also faced delays when attempting to upgrade their existing EZ-link cards to SimplyGo-compatible cards in the past two weeks.
In a Facebook post, Minister Chee offered apologies on behalf of the MOT and LTA for these inconveniences. He admitted that better preparation could have avoided these issues. Subsequently, he reassured the public that LTA has taken corrective actions. These actions include updates to the SimplyGo app and accelerated card conversion processes.
LTA’s statement mentioned that adult commuters who acquired SimplyGo Ez-link cards or converted their EZ-link cards to SimplyGo since January 9 have the option to exchange their cards for traditional ones at no cost. This choice is available to those who prefer this alternative.
Concession cardholders who obtained a SimplyGo-compatible card or converted their cards on or before Monday will have the choice. They can exchange their cards for their original concession cards free of charge if they decide not to continue using SimplyGo cards.
