The Root Problem Of Singapores Public Transportation

November 10th, 2008 - In Singapore Politics & Economy, Singapore Transport

Alice Cheong wrote an interesting article about the hustle over the privatization of the Singapore public transport system that is currently going on and questions why the government is not taking over the system.

It very much resembles my point of view, so please continue reading her article :

The governing body is under the assumption that transport operators will be under pressure to step up productivity to survive competition. However, the assumption is clearly flawed. The privatisation of public transport has not delivered the improved service standards nor shorter arrival times, while fares have been constantly increasing based on the justification that being private transport operator, they are not charity and need to make profit for their shareholders. Moreover, there is no real competition.

However, the transport operation will remain privatised, as any displeasure of the service standard, arrival times and fare price will be aimed at the private sector, and is none of the government’s fault. (We have set out the requirements, it is the supplier who cannot delivered. Not my fault. I have done my part. Fire at the supplier.) No ministry department will want to take the blame. They will just fine the transport operators when there is a major mess-up. (Good money. No arrows. Comfortable job.)

Moreover, it is always easy to be the manager. They will only need to say, I have the money, and I want the product or service done. The supplier will do the heavy weight lifting of getting the specification right. If they can’t get the specification right, we will just fine them. There is always the late delivery penalty and the un-met requirements penalty. There is no good reasons for the scholar high up there to get their hands dirty.

Govt should take over public transport

[Is It Alice Cheon in Wonderland]

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