Given that it is nigh impossible for the majority to own a car in Singapore, quality and affordable public transport will continue to be essential for most people here.

On this note, I would like commend senior transport correspondent Christopher Tan for his commentary (Make sure bus, train fare increases are tied to service improvements; March 29).

He is correct in pointing out that as our public transport companies have an unbroken profitability record, the need to increase bus and train fares remains unconvincing.

Is profitability more important than quality and affordable commuter service? Why delegate the provision of public transport to for-profit companies?

The Government should take over all public transport operations to ensure affordable fares and quality service.

Ng Seet Boo