SMRT must stay focused on transport business despite OMGTel deal, says MOT

Public transport must not be compromised.

SMRT must remain focused on its transport business despite its recent partnership with OMGTel, Minister for Transport Lui Tuck Yew said in Parliament yesterday.

“I expect SMRT to remain fully focused on providing reliable and efficient public transport services,” Minister Liu said.

He noted that SMRT’s proposed $34.5m stake in OMGTel is a “small amount” compared to the overall cost of a new mobile network.

He also reiterated that the authority imposes strict operating standards for public transport operators (PTOs), and failing to live up to their mandate could result in hefty fines for PTOs.

“LTA will continue to keep a close eye on our public transport operators to ensure that they are not distracted by their non-public transport businesses, and that their primary mission of providing public transport services is not compromised,” he said.