All these changes did not resolve the congestion problem, but instead created more confusion. I bet almost all motorists will still follow the same travel pattern come July 7 when the five new gantries and new rates take effect.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has overlooked the fact that all roads in Singapore are linked and any diversion of traffic from one location will create a problem somewhere else. So, in terms of economic loss arising from slower traffic, the net effect will remain unchanged or become even worse due to motorists' confusion.

Furthermore, all explanations given by the LTA so far are not convincing, judging from feedback in the newspapers. A good policy should be clear, simple, convincing and have the full support of the people.

To put a stop to this firefighting, we should abolish the current ERP and road tax systems and replace them with a Pay As You Drive (PAYD) scheme. Under PAYD, the LTA can build thousands of gantries on all major roads and tax motorists based solely on use. It can impose different rates for different types of vehicles and ensure each motorist is not charged more than the current road tax and estimated ERP charges.

With the PAYD system in place, every motorist will plan his journey carefully and will not drive unless absolutely necessary. Many will also opt to travel by public transport.

Liang Teh Hai