Unpopular Opinion: Public Transport Edition
The Hidden Tradeoffs No One Talks About
- QHAOS Studios
- One Comment
Singapore is known for its efficient public transport and MRT network, but recent MRT disruptions, crowded trains, and rising Grab fares have left many commuters frustrated. The recent East-West Line breakdown in September 2024, which lasted a staggering six days, and the Buangkok MRT disruption in February 2025 have raised concerns about the reliability of public transport.
While public transport remains the more affordable commuting option, the question remains: Is it still the best choice? Or is it time to consider car ownership despite the high cost of COE?
Is Public Transport in Singapore Reliable?
The Reality of MRT Breakdowns and Delays
MRT breakdowns are no longer rare occurrences. In the past year alone, Singaporeans have faced multiple train service disruptions. The East-West Line breakdown in September 2024 lasted six days, causing massive delays, overcrowding in MRT stations, and frustration among commuters. In February 2025, a signalling fault at Buangkok MRT led to significant peak-hour disruptions, affecting thousands of people. Other MRT service delays in recent years have continued to highlight the vulnerabilities of the system.
While bus bridging services are deployed during MRT faults, they often struggle to efficiently replace the lost capacity, leading to longer wait times and extended travel durations. Many commuters find themselves stranded, waiting for packed buses that barely ease the congestion.
The Struggles of Commuting During Peak Hours
Public transport during peak hours is an ordeal that many Singaporeans endure daily. Overcrowded MRT trains and platforms make travel uncomfortable, with commuters often packed like sardines. Long waiting times become a frequent problem when full MRT trains arrive, forcing people to wait for the next available one. This unpredictability means that even with an efficient transport system, one major MRT service disruption can throw an entire day off track.
The Hidden Costs of Public Transport in Singapore
While MRT and buses are cheaper than car ownership, there are hidden costs associated with relying on public transport. The most significant of these is time lost. Waiting for delayed MRT trains, dealing with service breakdowns, and enduring long commutes all add up over time. The stress of these daily struggles can reduce productivity, with commuters arriving at work already drained from the journey. Additionally, public transport does not cater well to late-night workers or families with special needs, adding another layer of inconvenience for those who require flexible commuting options.
Time is Money: The Opportunity Cost of Public Transport
How Delays Affect Commission-Based and Self-Employed Professionals
For salaried employees, a public transport delay may result in arriving late to work and facing minor disciplinary action. However, for commission-based professionals or those with income-dependent jobs, the impact can be far more significant. Real estate agents and financial advisors, for instance, rely on punctuality to secure deals. Missing an important client meeting due to an MRT service disruption could mean losing thousands of dollars in commission-based income. Similarly, freelancers and gig economy workers, who charge hourly rates, see a direct loss in earnings every time they are delayed. Business owners and entrepreneurs who miss an investor pitch or supplier meeting due to public transport failures could damage long-term business opportunities.
Is Public Transport Really Cheaper When Considering Opportunity Cost?
While public transport fares may seem significantly lower than car ownership expenses, the real question is whether the savings outweigh the opportunity cost. A commission-based worker losing just one high-value deal per month due to MRT delays could be losing far more money than the cost of owning a car. Similarly, for self-employed individuals, every wasted hour in transit time translates into lost income. When time is money, the reliability and efficiency of transport choices become critical factors in determining which mode is truly more cost-effective.
Car Ownership in Singapore – A Costly Luxury or a Necessity?
The True Cost of Owning a Car in Singapore
Owning a car in Singapore is undeniably expensive, with rising COE prices, road tax, and fuel costs. However, when balanced against reliability and time savings, it may still be a worthwhile investment for some individuals. Key financial considerations include COE bidding, which fluctuates but can present occasional buying opportunities. Car loan interest rates vary among financial institutions, and choosing the right loan can significantly reduce costs. Car maintenance costs, ERP charges, and parking fees are additional factors that need to be considered when evaluating car ownership expenses.
The Perks of Having Your Own Car
The convenience of car ownership cannot be understated. For families, having a private vehicle makes travelling with young children, elderly family members, or individuals with special needs significantly easier. Unlike public transport, car owners are not bound by MRT schedules and can travel at their own pace. Time efficiency is another major advantage, as driving allows for direct travel without unnecessary stops or long waiting times. The ability to travel comfortably and efficiently is often the deciding factor for those who choose to own a vehicle.
Who Should Consider Owning a Car?
Car ownership is not for everyone, but certain groups of people can benefit greatly from having their own private transport. Business professionals who need to maintain punctuality and a strong first impression may find a car to be a valuable asset. Families with young children will appreciate the convenience of a family car, especially when carrying baby essentials. Freelancers, entrepreneurs, and self-employed individuals can also benefit from the flexibility that car ownership provides, allowing them to optimise their time and productivity.
Private Hire Cars & Taxis – A Middle Ground Solution?
The Pros and Cons of Ride-Hailing Services
For those who do not want to own a car but still seek a convenient alternative to public transport, ride-hailing services like Grab and Gojek offer a middle-ground solution. However, these services come with their own set of challenges. Grab peak hour surcharges can make rides as expensive as owning a car. Availability issues arise during peak hours, heavy rain, or MRT breakdowns, making it difficult to secure a ride when it is needed the most. Taxi fares can sometimes be cheaper than Grab, but availability remains inconsistent.
Late-Night Transport Dilemma
One of the biggest limitations of public transport is its operating hours. MRT and bus services typically end around midnight, leaving night shift workers and social night owls with limited options. Grab and taxis become the primary mode of transport after hours, but surge pricing often makes these rides prohibitively expensive. Car ownership offers a 24/7 commuting solution, eliminating the worry of transport limitations at odd hours.
The Verdict – Should You Own a Car in Singapore?
Ultimately, the decision to own a car depends on personal needs and financial considerations. For those who value time, flexibility, and reliability, car ownership may not just be a luxury but a necessity.
If you’re a commission-based worker, have late shifts, or are caring for young children or elderly family members, public transport may not always cut it. At Car Pulse, we understand the unique challenges you face, and we’re here to help you find an affordable, dependable car to make life easier. Whether it’s a safe and comfortable ride for your family or a hassle-free commute to work, we’ve got you covered.