Illegal carpooling thrives in Singapore despite safety concerns

Illegal carpooling in Singapore is thriving, despite safety risks and law enforcement challenges. Many commuters turn to these services on Telegram to save money, even though they face potential dangers. Young commuters, particularly students, often book rides through informal channels like Telegram. For example, 18-year-old Ms. Faa decided to use an illegal carpool service for her school commute. Despite warnings from friends about safety, she found the fares appealing. However, she has already experienced an uncomfortable situation with a driver who pressured her to dine with him. Similar stories have surfaced from other passengers. Mr. Jun recounted a past experience with a female driver who offered to waive his fare in exchange for a sexual favor. Ms. Megan received disturbing messages from drivers after posting ride requests. These incidents highlight the risks passengers face when opting for cheaper, illegal options. Authorities struggle to crack down on these unofficial services. Commuters often find them 60% cheaper than legal alternatives. The popularity of illegal carpooling is also fueled by limited availability of legal rides during odd hours and the convenience these services provide. Despite the dangers, some drivers enter the illegal carpooling scene to cover fuel costs or earn extra money without regulatory restrictions. In Singapore, informal transport, including illegal carpooling, poses safety concerns, as drivers may not have the necessary licenses or insurance coverage. Government officials have discussed the issue in Parliament, emphasizing the need for stricter measures against illegal carpooling. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) warns of penalties for drivers offering these services but notes that passengers are not penalized. Experts suggest that the demand for illegal carpooling hints at gaps in Singapore's transport system. Some passengers rely on these services for more economical options, especially in underserved areas or during late hours. While some have ceased using illegal services due to frightening experiences, others continue to engage with them for financial reasons. Cases of abuse and accidents involving illegal carpooling have further raised alarms about safety. Lawmakers call for public awareness campaigns to educate commuters about the risks, and some propose tougher laws against unauthorized platforms. The ongoing challenge remains finding a balance between enforcing transportation regulations and ensuring accessible options for commuters.