SMU Assistant Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship (Education) Terence Fan explained why Singapore's use of elevated tracks for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) presents a challenge as they are generally costlier. He also noted that when the LRT system was later implemented in Sengkang and Punggol, the development of the towns progressed much more quickly, resulting in a shorter duration for construction. Asst Prof Fan also noted the challenges of working with elevated tracks, and explained why some of these existing challenges cannot be fixed despite the ongoing renewal works. He added that LRT systems in cities like Melbourne, Australia or Copenhagen, Denmark manage smoother rides due to less frequent turns and more advanced technology, and commuters in these cities may not distinguish between light rail and other forms of transit due to their comfortable experiences. Asst Prof Fan also said that the growth in ridership from 2015 to 2019 of over 30 per cent is “great by any measure.” He also shared his views on the possible reason no new LRT lines have been built.
