There are two factors why LTA chose to phase them out. As we know, there have been mobile wallets, stored value, and EZ-Link Cards. It results in low usage of the tickets and ticketing machine and purchase in a one-way ticket, either single or return trips.

Commuters use these platforms as it offers lesser fare price and is more convenient.

Knowing the schedule ahead of time will prevent unexpected situations while traveling. LTA released a plan of phasing out general tickets. The authority will slowly phase out the three railways between January and March.

The first phase-out will be on January 10 at Thomson-East Coast Line and Downtown Line. The Circle Line and North-East Line North-South will be on February 10, followed by East-West Lines on March 10.

The progress of these changes has been progressively moving. Earlier in September, LTA sent out letters to Comcare recipients to avail of the free adult EZ-Link card that they can redeem in 48 TransitLink Ticket Offices or Concession Card Replacement Offices. On the other hand, those who belong to seniors, migrant workers, and low-income groups are encouraged to switch to stored value or ABT options. The LTA also reduced the minimum top-up for cards in the ticketing machine to $2 from 5$ (students card) and $10 (adult card).

LTA conducted a pilot observation and concluded that most commuters have access and value savings and the convenience of ABT options, stored value cards, and concession cards.