Free travel on SMRT bus and train services for National Day

SINGAPORE - Commuters will be able to travel for free on bus and train services on National Day (Aug 9), according to a statement released by SMRT Corporation on Saturday.

The free travel will take effect from the start of service to the end of operation.

SMRT's rail network includes services on the North-South East-West Lines, Circle Line and the Bukit Panjang LRT. Connections between rail lines operated by the two Public Transport Operators will also be free. Commuters taking SMRT trunk and feeder bus services, as well as SMRT's Night Rider, can board any bus free of charge.

According to SMRT, the free travel offered will encourage people to attend National Day celebrations island-wide.

Fare gates at MRT stations on the North-South East-West Line, Circle Line and Bukit Panjang LRT stations will be left open on National Day as SMRT welcomes commuters to travel on its train network. Commuters need not tap in or out at all MRT stations on National Day.

Commuters travelling on SMRT buses can also board all bus services without tapping in with their fare cards.

Activities will be held at 10 MRT stations and five bus interchanges, where SMRT management and staff will give out limited edition SG50 buttons and postcards.

Commuters can also take photos with their family and friends at a photo wall which will be set up. A photo competition will also be run where commuters can win limited edition SMRT SG50 EZ-Link cards.

Mr Desmond Kuek, President and Group Chief Executive Officer, SMRT Corporation Ltd, said: "SMRT staff at our train stations, bus interchanges and aboard our trains and buses look forward to meeting you as we roll out free travel across our bus and train network on National Day. With SG50 celebrations taking place island-wide, we would like people to come travel with us as we bring them around Singapore to see, experience and enjoy celebrations held to mark Singapore's 50th birthday.

"Our most meaningful contribution to the people of Singapore is a safe, reliable and customer-centric transport service that will carry Singapore forward for years to come. This we are determined to deliver as we renew our rail infrastructure and continue to enhance our service touchpoints, setting our sights on the future with a transport network that Singaporeans are proud of."

candicec@sph.com.sg