SINGAPORE - This year's Public Transport Voucher exercise has seen a "strong response" from needy residents, the Ministry of Transport said on Wednesday.

As of March 31 there had been more than 125,000 applications for the 250,000 $30 vouchers available.

The Government has funded them using $7.5 million from the Public Transport Fund in an effort to help needy families cope with the fare adjustment which took effect on April 5.

They can apply at any of the 107 community centres (CCs) islandwide.

Families who received Public Transport Vouchers in last year's exercise are also eligible to apply this year.

Grassroots leaders have advised residents how to apply for them during house visits and community events.

Mr Tan Kung Hock, 58, said: "I submitted my application at Sengkang CC when the grassroots leaders who knew about my financial situation advised me to do so. The voucher helped to cover some of my daily transport cost. For needy residents like us, every little help counts."

The application process has been simplified this year to make it easier for residents, with information supplied last year being used again.

Successful households will each receive one voucher.

However, the Citizens' Consultative Committees (CCCs) may exercise discretion to provide additional vouchers to households deemed to need more help.

The People's Association will continue to work with the CCCs to help needy households to submit applications. Residents can also approach their grassroots leaders or make enquiries at their local CCs.