Image Credits: SgTransport via Flickr
Singapore’s Public Transportation aids in the nation’s economic and environmental challenges. Most locals prefer to travel via train or bus just because it is safe, fast, and efficient. On that note, here are the background, tips, and benefits of traveling thru Public Transportation…
BACKGROUND
1. TRAIN OR MASS RAPID TRANSIT (MRT)
As most parts of Singapore are accessible by the MRT, it proves to be an affordable and convenient option. Get cheaper rates by traveling with a concession card (i.e., Child Concession Card, Student Concession Card, NSF Concession Card, and Senior Citizen Concession Card). In fact, Senior Citizen Concession Card get 25% off adult fares all day.
If you are a tourist, you are in luck! The MRT stations are made to be merely walking distance from the notable attractions such as the museums.
2. BUS
The buses provide the most picturesque view of the Lion City at budget-friendly fares ranging from S$1-3. All the children below 7 years old get to enjoy free travel. It is important to know that all commuters are charged based on their total distance traveled (i.e., no transfer costs) whether it is by bus or by train. So, the fares depend on your location and destination.
TIPS
1. MOVE TO THE CENTER OF THE TRAIN
Moving to the center of the MRT does not only help passengers to smoothly go in and out but it will also help you to get a seat.
2. CHECK YOUR BELONGINGS
Always take care of your valuables. Although your lost item can be retrieved, there is a slim chance that the finder may choose to keep it.
3. GET AN ESTIMATE OF YOUR DISTANCE FARE
Use the standard online calculator available here to estimate your travel costs. Find alternative routes to get the cheapest fare.
BENEFITS
1. SAVE CASH
It is no surprise that Public Transportation saves you more money as the price of owning a car here is overwhelming. Adding to that, going by bus or by train can help you beat the petrol price hike and the cost for maintaining a vehicle.
2. SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT
Public Transportation saves our environment as it reduces carbon emissions, petrol consumption, and congestion. Imagine if every family owns a car, given the scarcity of land, congestion will unfold.
Aside from preventing congestion, it is more energy efficient that private cars. According to the Land Transport Authority, the average carbon footprint per 10 km released by bus is 0.19kg while the by train is 0.13kg. This is smaller compared to the carbon footprint released by a private car (1.87kg)!
3. IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH
Access to Public Transportation enables you to walk to and from the bus or MRT station. That is a no-cost way to exercise! Also, it avoids the stress you may get from driving especially during rush hours.
Image Credits: epSos .de via Flickr
