The introduction of the Off-Peak Monthly Travel Pass is a clear sign that the Ministry of Transport has lost touch with the ground....

I read that the Ministry of Transport announced a new Off-Peak Monthly Travel Pass (OMTP) scheme to encourage commuters to shift their travel times away from peak hours. I think ultimately they want to reduce overcrowding of trains and buses too.

Commuters can use the OMTP for unlimited travel on the bus and rail network anytime outside the weekday morning peak period of 6.30am to 9am and evening peak period of 5pm to 7.30pm, as well as all day on weekends and public holidays.

If I am an OL working office hours (9am to 6pm), do you think I would want to wake up at least an hour early and travel to my office in the CBD before 6.30am? And why would I have to wait from 6pm to 7.30pm after work? All this just to save $40 (from the Adult Monthly Travel Pass)?

This is stupid. I wonder those who came out with the scheme really travel on public transport.

If the ultimate aim is to reduce overcrowding of trains and buses too, then work on REDUCING THE NEED FOR PEOPLE TO TRAVEL! If the office hours workers can work from home, the trains and buses won't be so packed in the mornings.....