Government gives green light to LTMP's 2040 Advisory Panel's recommendations

Nine in 10 peak-hour trips could take less than 45 minutes by 2040.

The Government has accepted the Land Transport Master Plan (LTMP) 2040 Advisory Panel’s recommendations for healthy and safe 20-minute towns and a 45-minute city for all by 2040, according to an announcement by acting minister for Transport Vivian Balakrishnan during the Committee of Supply debate.

The LTMP previously made recommendations in three key areas, which primarily called for a more convenient and connected commute which would result in journeys to the nearest neighbourhood centre completed in less than 20 minutes, and 9 in 10 peak-period journeys completed in less than 45 minutes.

According to senior minister of state for Transport and Communications & Information Janil Puthucheary, the opening of Hume Station on the Downtown Line represents a first step towards achieving this goal.

Also read: Nine in 10 peak-hour trips could take less than 45 minutes by 2040

“Moving forward, the Government will continue to prioritise a seamlessly integrated public, active and shared transport network that provides all commuters with convenient access to good jobs, schools and amenities. This will be reinforced by efforts across the Government to develop more live, work, play options away from the city centre, such that more jobs, services and amenities are located closer to homes,” Balakrishnan added.

The other recommendations comprised of a more inclusive land transport system that is supported by a caring and gracious commuting culture and a land transport system that is safe, supports active lifestyles and contributes to a cleaner environment.

“We will work towards a “Vision Zero” environment with fewer land transport-related fatalities, and will continue improving our safety record through education and enforcement. We will also explore ways to dedicate more space towards public, active and shared transport, which supports healthier lifestyles,” Balakrishnan noted.

Also read: NTU Singapore and Volvo roll out 'world's first' self-driving electric buses

Meanwhile, Puthucheary announced that all diesel-fuelled public buses will use cleaner energy sources by 2040. The Government said that it welcomes similar commitments from the private transport sector, and is heartened that all taxi companies and many private hire car booking providers have committed to cleaner energy fleets by the same timeline.

A fuller set of measures to achieve the Panel’s recommendations will be detailed in a report that will be released at a later date, authorities said.