- The Covid-19 pandemic has necessitated reforms in public health protocols in Singapore’s public transportation.
- Digitalization, including big data and digital platforms, is key to modernizing public transportation.
- Increased sanitation efforts, including automated cleaning systems, are critical for public health.
- With reduced government funding, alternative financing methods for public transportation projects will be needed.
- Businesses must embrace innovation to help transition into a post-Covid world.
The pandemic has disrupted how people live, work, and travel, including how they use public transportation. As businesses in Singapore start planning for a post-Covid world, it is critical to consider the changes and challenges that come with public transportation.
The pandemic has accelerated the push for sustainable transportation options and innovation in public transportation systems. Therefore, understanding how the SMRT can future-proof its public transportation systems is more important than ever for businesses in Singapore. The company has already started future-proofing its systems by looking for innovative solutions in its operations. It also aims to improve service and maintenance to meet future needs in public transport. The company has also integrated AI into its system to enhance passenger safety in its railway systems.
Health Awareness in Public Transportation
The pandemic has changed the face of public transportation in Singapore. To ensure that businesses and passengers are safe, several new protocols have been introduced to promote greater health awareness. This includes the mandatory wearing of face masks, social distancing measures on board, and regular disinfection of all surfaces. Even as the authorities have lifted the mandatory wearing of masks, many passengers continue to observe the practice out of habit, especially among the elderly.
Reduce Transmission
These protocols are aimed at reducing the risks of transmission through public transportation. However, passengers must still be responsible for their health and safety when traveling. It is essential that they remain vigilant about hygiene practices such as washing hands before and after trips, avoiding contact with surfaces in public spaces, and wearing face masks correctly. Passengers should also maintain a two-meter distance between each other on board.
Work with the Government
The future of public transportation in Singapore is closely linked to the health and safety of passengers. Businesses should work with government agencies to ensure that these protocols are enforced for all citizens using public transport. Businesses can also make the journey more pleasant for their customers by providing comfortable seating and amenities on board. Ultimately, businesses should strive to provide an efficient and safe public transportation system to ensure passengers feel safe when traveling.
Digitalization of Public Transportation
Emerging technology can further disrupt traditional methods of planning, booking, and paying for public transport. Singapore’s Land Transport Authority’s big data initiative leverages real-time data to better predict passenger demand, thus allowing effective scheduling of bus and train services.
Digital Platforms
In the post-pandemic world, businesses can leverage existing or new digital platforms to offer their employees a seamless, contactless commuting experience. Digital contact tracing technologies and apps can also aid in managing crowded transport hubs and crowded trains and buses.
Driverless Cars
In addition, the introduction of driverless cars and electronic scooters in Singapore can have a significant impact on public transport. Driverless cars are already providing last-mile solutions to connect commuters with their destinations. Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular for short trips, providing an eco-friendly alternative to motor vehicles or buses.
Increased Sanitation Efforts
The pandemic has necessitated more frequent and thorough cleaning of public transportation terminals and vehicles to curb the spread of the virus. Ultraviolet disinfection, anti-bacterial coatings, and more aggressive sanitization procedures are now being implemented. With hygiene risks at the forefront of people’s minds due to the ongoing pandemic, businesses in Singapore should consider investing in long-term sanitation solutions to bring employees back to the office and onto public transportation.
Automated Cleaning Systems
Automated cleaning systems have already been rolled out for public transport vehicles. This system sanitizes the vehicle surface regularly, reducing human labor and contact with surfaces that could harbor viruses or bacteria. Additionally, automated air purification systems can help create a healthier environment inside public transport vehicles and other enclosed spaces.
Evolving Public Transportation Funding
Government funding plays an integral part in public transportation. In light of the pandemic, many governments around the world have increased transportation spending to support organizations that have been seriously impacted. However, as economies are squeezed into recuperation after restrictions are lifted, financing aids for public transport projects may have become scarcer.
Alternative Financing Methods
Businesses in Singapore may need to consider alternative financing methods, such as innovative funding models for public transport projects. These could include loan/investment structures, public-private partnerships, and crowdfunding. They may also need to look into renewable energy sources for their transportation systems, as they are generally more cost-effective in the long run.
The pandemic has changed many things, including how people live, work, travel, and use public transportation. There are still many unknowns about what the post-pandemic world will look like. The pandemic has given people the unique opportunity to innovate and reshape transportation, especially public transportation. The future of public transportation will play a vital role in helping Singapore businesses transition into a post-Covid world. With the right combination of infrastructure, technology, funding, and planning, the country can ensure that its public transport is efficient, sustainable, and safe for all who depend on it.
