Low-wage workers and disabled individuals will soon get help with their public transport fares.

From July 6, low-wage workers, who are under the Workfare Income Supplement scheme, will get a 15 per cent discount on their adult fares. The Transport Ministry said that this will help these workers who depend on public transport for work to pursue better job and training opportunities further way from their homes.

Disabled people will also benefit from a new concession scheme which will give them 25 per cent off their adult fares. Their fares will also be capped at the fare payable for 7.2km. If they are heavy public transport users, a monthly concession pass with unlimited bus and train rides will also be made available at $60 a month.

A total of about 400,000 low wage-workers and 50,000 disabled individuals are likely to benefit from the concession scheme, with the Government spending an estimated $50 million a year to fund these schemes. Members of the public who have any queries regarding the two schemes may call 1800-2255-663 or visit www.transitlink.com.sg

Individuals who are eligible for the concessions should receive a letter informing them of how to go about applying for the concession schemes.

The Ministry of Social and Family Development will release more details in end February or early March on who else might be eligible for the monthly concession pass for the disabled and how to apply. This is for people who are not already automatically eligible for the scheme.

The Transport Ministry added that interim financial assistance will be provided between April 6, when adult fares rise, and July 6 when the subsidies kick in. Low-wage workers will receive $30 in transport vouchers while disabled individuals will get $80.