I REFER to the recent increase in public-transport fares. I understand the rise in the price of resources led to the increase.
However, is the fare hike a last resort for public-transport companies, or is raising fares a knee-jerk reaction to an increase in operational costs?
The number of commuters is rising, but the standard of the public-transport system is not following suit.
Therefore, I urge the Public Transport Council (PTC) to consider improving the following:
Frequency of buses
Something should be done to shorten the intervals between bus services. The waiting times for some services can be as long as 30 minutes.
Safety
I am very glad that buses now cater to the disabled. However, there is still room for improvement, as the high steps on buses pose a danger to commuters, especially the very young and the elderly.
Overcrowding
Are there any rules on passenger capacity of public buses? Peak hours often see commuters packed like sardines on buses. Such crowded buses can be a danger to both commuters and motorists.
Bus interiors
I have travelled in buses where seat cushions were loose or torn and tattered, and where cockroaches were crawling around.
Roadworthiness of buses
Recently, I have seen more buses breaking down. Are there any figures on this? Are fines imposed if buses do not meet certain standards?
I hope this will bring to light commuters' woes, and would like to see more action being taken by PTC for commuters, as opposed to public-transport companies.
