Hard work needed to regain support of those hit by rail disruptions: Murali

The Government needs to work hard to win back the support of frustrated Singaporeans affected by rail disruptions, said Senior Minister of State for Transport Murali Pillai.

- Lee Nian Tjoe Senior Transport Correspondent

Between July and September, there were at least 15 disruptions across the MRT network, raising questions about the overall reliability of the rail system. Mr Murali said the Government will invest to reduce rail disruptions, but these will not be eliminated entirely. ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG

In his speech during the debate on the President's Address, Mr Murali acknowledged that failure in transport service is a "justified cause for frustration and disappointment", given Singapore's hard-earned reputation for reliability and predictability.

Between July and September, there were at least 15 disruptions across the MRT network, raising questions about the overall reliability of the rail system.

Mr Murali said the Government will invest to reduce rail disruptions, but these will not be eliminated entirely.

"I don't take pleasure in saying this, but this is the hard truth," he told the House on Sept 26.

When disruptions happen, the Government will ensure service is recovered as quickly as possible, he said, adding: "We will communicate with commuters and help them find alternative routes."