Government Extends COVID-19 Driver Relief Fund; Introduces Commuting Measures for Stabilisation Phase

The Government will extend the COVID-19 Driver Relief Fund (CDRF) from 01 October 2021.

This is to help taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) drivers get through the stabilisation phase and slow the rate of local COVID-19 infections, said the Land Transport Authority (LTA) on 24 September 2021.

With this extension, some 50,000 drivers can expect to receive $10 per vehicle per day for the month of October, and $5 per vehicle per day for November.

The extension of the CDRF comes right after the Multi-Ministry Taskforce’s stabilisation phase announcement on 24 September 2021.

Taking to Facebook, NTUC U FSE Director Yeo Wan Ling said the restrictions set over the next 28 days are expected to have an impact on the taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) ridership, as permissible group sizes will be reduced to two persons, with working-from-home being the default arrangement for most companies.

“We thank the Government for setting aside another additional $23.5 million to support our taxi and private hire car drivers. This is an extension of the CDRF when the current tranche ends after September 2021,” she said.

The National Taxi Association (NTA) and National Private Hire Vehicles Association (NPHVA) provided feedback that drivers would require continued support after the current tranche of the CDRF ends in September. Both had requested for the Government to extend the fund.

Commuting Measures

Passenger Limits for Taxis and PHVs

The updated restrictions on group sizes will also apply to passengers on taxis and PHVs. Passengers from different households are required to keep to the two passenger-limit when travelling in taxis and PHVs.

However, more than two passengers can travel together in a taxi or PHV if they all live in the same household.

Car Pooling Services Suspended

All forms of carpooling services will be suspended for the next 28 days. This includes services such as GrabHitch and RydePool.

All commuters were also encouraged to use taxis and PHVs booked through licensed ride-hail operators.

During their commute, all travellers are reminded to always keep their masks on.

When travelling on public transport, commuters should try to stand apart from one another or travel during off-peak periods wherever possible.