The Land Transport Authority (LTA) will increase Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) rates by S$1 at selected gantries on certain expressways starting from 9 September 2024. This measure aims to alleviate traffic congestion during peak hours. The affected gantries are located on the Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE) after Jurong Town Hall towards the city, the Marina Coastal Expressway (MCE) Eastbound before the exit to Central Boulevard and at the slip road from Marina Boulevard, and the Kallang-Paya Lebar Expressway (KPE) after Defu Flyover.
## Background
The LTA announced the ERP rate hike in a press release on 2 September 2024. The decision comes as part of ongoing efforts to manage traffic flow and reduce congestion on Singapore’s expressways. The ERP system, which charges drivers for using certain roads during peak hours, is a key tool in the country’s traffic management strategy. The new rates will be implemented during specific peak periods in the morning and evening.
## Affected gantries and timings
The revised ERP rates will be enforced at different times for each gantry. For instance, the gantries on the MCE Eastbound before the exit to Central Boulevard and at the slip road from Marina Boulevard, which currently do not charge any fees, will start deducting S$1 during the specified peak periods. The detailed list of affected gantries and their new rates are as follows:
– AYE after Jurong Town Hall towards City (set of three gantries): S$3.00
– MCE Eastbound before exit to Central Boulevard and at slip road from Marina Boulevard (set of two gantries): S$1.00 during 18:30 – 19:00
– KPE (ECP) after Defu Flyover: S$4.00 during 08:00 – 08:30
## Impact on motorists
Motorists using these routes during the specified times will need to factor in the additional costs. The LTA has stated that the rate adjustments are necessary to ensure smoother traffic flow and to encourage the use of alternative routes or modes of transport during peak hours. “We understand that this may be an inconvenience for some drivers, but it is essential for maintaining efficient traffic management,” an LTA spokesperson said.
## Previous and future adjustments
This is not the first time ERP rates have been adjusted to manage traffic congestion. Previous rate hikes have shown a positive impact on reducing traffic during peak hours. The LTA will continue to monitor traffic conditions and make further adjustments as necessary. Future changes will be communicated to the public in advance to allow motorists to plan their journeys accordingly.
By implementing these changes, the LTA aims to improve the overall efficiency of Singapore’s road network, ensuring that travel times remain manageable for all road users.
