In our recent online poll, 89% of the participants support the closure of ERPs during this period.
In light of the Covid-19 pandemic which has seen less travelling, Electronic road pricing (ERP) will now be suspended at most locations from April 6, with decreased rates at remaining spots.
There will be zero charge at gantries in the city and on arterial roads. Zero charging will be in effect most time slots.
According to The Straits Times,
For instance, southbound CTE from Braddell Road towards city will be free, down from between $2 and $1 now. PIE between Adam Road and Mt Pleasant Road will likewise have zero charging, from between $1 and $2 now.
In total, 74 out of 77 gantries will see a reduction of at least $2.
The LTA said the reductions are not to encourage people to drive more, and it added that motorists and commuters should still defer all non-essential travel.
Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan told reporters in an interview on 31 March that he had asked the LTA to review rates two weeks ago after noticing traffic was lighter “than even during the December holidays”.
In the midst of this economic slowdown due to the impact of Covid-19, the government’s decision to suspend ERP will help lessen the burden on those who make a living on the roads, such as taxi drivers, grab drivers and delivery services. ROADS offer our deepest thanks to LTA for making such a wise choice.
Thumbnail Credits: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_Road_Pricing