Sell train-only travel concession passes for seniors
The writer says some elderly Singaporeans travel mostly by train and do not need the bus trips included in the current S$60 concession pass.
To encourage retirees to get out of their homes and be more active, I urge the Public Transport Council (PTC) to introduce a train-only travel concession pass for this group.
Today, senior citizens can buy a “hybrid” monthly concession pass for S$60. This gives them unlimited rides on trains and basic bus services.
But like other seniors, I mostly take trains and do not need the bus trips included in the hybrid pass.
Several years ago, there was a S$40 travel pass that allowed elderly riders unlimited travel on buses and trains during off-peak hours, but the trial was discontinued in late 2017.
Perhaps PTC can introduce a train-only concession pass at S$40 a month.
This will allow retirees the flexibility to choose a concession pass based on their needs.
In this way, senior citizens can continue to lead an active lifestyle by leaving their homes to catch up with friends and engage in other activities.
This will also help them to maintain a healthy mental state and potentially ease the burden of healthcare costs.
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