When it comes to moving millions of people efficiently, Singapore has officially set the global gold standard according to the latest Urban Mobility Readiness Index. Developed by the Oliver Wyman Forum in partnership with researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, Singapore claimed the number one spot worldwide in the Public Transit Sub-Index in its latest index. Outperforming 69 other major global cities, Singapore’s public transport was recognised not just for its current efficiency, but for its forward-thinking plans that leave traditional transit powerhouses trailing behind. Here’s what we know.
Why is Singapore #1 for global public transit?
The core of Singapore’s top-tier ranking is its ambitious physical expansion designed around the concept of extreme accessibility. The latest index highlights that Singapore plans to expand its rail network by 223 miles by the early 2030s.
Meanwhile, the massive infrastructure push is designed to ensure 80% of households are situated within a 10-minute walk of a train station. In fact, this expansion will give Singapore a longer total rail length than both Tokyo and Hong Kong once the next phase is completed.
Additionally, the index’s data notes that commuters heavily trust the network, with public transit ridership successfully rebounding to 93.5% of pre-pandemic levels.
Singapore is actively redefining what a world-class, future-proof public transport network looks like according to the index. Plus, the city-state ranked #3 overall worldwide in mobility readiness.
Despite the #1 global ranking, it’s important to note that Singapore’s transport system still faces local criticism when it comes to reliability. From frequent MRT breakdowns disrupting travel for millions to frustration around periodic fare hikes…locals may have a different opinion on the world’s best public transport links.
