Grab is currently offering a promotion code to all commuters while the MRT East-West Line train services are disrupted on 26 September. The 15 per cent discount with promo code “TAKEGRAB” is applicable to Grab transport rides, including JustGrab, GrabCar, GrabFramily, and GrabPet. It is capped at S$4 and limited to one redemption per user. The promotion started on 25 September, the first day of the East-West Line disruption. MRT services were first disrupted on Wednesday morning when a train that had been in service for over 35 years developed a fault. As it was being withdrawn, it damaged the tracks, including the running rails and a third rail supplying power to the train. This led to a power fault that affected train services between Boon Lay and Queenstown MRT stations along the East-West Line.
Background
The disruption on the East-West Line has caused significant inconvenience to commuters. The fault in the ageing train led to extensive damage to the tracks, necessitating immediate repairs and causing a power fault. This incident has highlighted the challenges of maintaining older train systems and the impact such disruptions can have on daily commuters. Grab’s promotion aims to alleviate some of the inconvenience faced by commuters during this period.
Grab prices surge
Grab prices surged following the disruption. According to a photo sent by a Mothership reader, a JustGrab ride from International Plaza in Tanjong Pagar to Nanyang Technological University near Boon Lay cost S$64.20 at around 5:30 pm. The prices fluctuated from S$58 to S$64 for around four hours, from 5 pm to 9 pm, the reader said. The photo also indicated that many people were opting to take GrabShare. The promotion code does not apply to passengers opting to take GrabShare.
Commuter reactions
Commuters have expressed frustration over the high fares and the inconvenience caused by the train disruption. “It’s really frustrating to deal with such high prices when the train services are down,” said one commuter. Another commuter mentioned, “The promotion is helpful, but it doesn’t cover the full cost of the ride, especially during peak hours.”
Government response
Chee Hong Tat, Senior Minister of State for Transport, has apologised for the disruption and promised to look for ways to cushion and mitigate the impact on affected commuters. He acknowledged the inconvenience caused and assured the public that efforts are being made to prevent such incidents in the future.
Future implications
The incident has raised questions about the reliability of the ageing MRT infrastructure and the need for upgrades. The government and transport authorities may need to invest in newer trains and better maintenance practices to avoid similar disruptions. Commuters are hopeful that such measures will be implemented to ensure smoother and more reliable train services in the future.
