New initiative signals buses as key part of transport network: Experts

Singapore's public transport system is set to receive a substantial boost with the introduction of the $900 million Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme. Announced on July 30, 2024, this initiative aims to improve bus services across the island, making public transport more efficient and appealing to commuters.

The Importance of Buses in Singapore's Transport Network

Despite the extensive MRT network, buses remain a crucial component of Singapore's public transport system. Associate Professor Walter Theseira from the Singapore University of Social Sciences emphasized that the new funding reassures the public about the continued importance of bus services. "This investment signals that buses are still a vital part of our transport network, especially for areas not directly served by MRT lines," he said.

Key Enhancements Under the Programme

The Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme includes several key improvements:

New Bus Services: The programme will introduce new bus services in areas with growing populations, such as new Build-To-Order (BTO) developments. For instance, a new service will connect Yishun East residents to Khatib MRT station by September.

Express Feeder Services: These services will offer more direct routes with fewer stops, reducing travel time for residents. An example is the upcoming express feeder service in Tampines North, set to launch in December.

Extended Routes: Existing bus routes will be extended to improve connectivity. By the end of 2024, a bus service in Toa Payoh East will connect residents to the Thomson-East Coast and Circle lines at Caldecott MRT station.

Peak-Hour Express Services: More peak-hour express bus services will be introduced to complement busier MRT lines. A new City Direct Service from Punggol to the Central Business District will start in October.

Community-Centric Approach

The programme's development involved consultations with grassroots advisers to ensure that the enhancements meet the specific needs of local communities. Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC MP Saktiandi Supaat noted that the initiative focuses on improving first and last-mile connectivity. "This is more about the first and last miles, and rationalizing overlapping bus services is a separate issue," he explained.

Expert Opinions

Transport experts have welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to make public transport more competitive. National University of Singapore economist Timothy Wong pointed out that reducing bus waiting times and creating more direct routes can narrow the gap between public transport and private vehicles. "The hope is that with an expanded rail network and more frequent and direct bus services, public transport becomes a more attractive option," he said.

Associate Professor Raymond Ong, a transport infrastructure researcher at NUS, described the $900 million investment as significant. He emphasized that the programme's success lies in its responsiveness to the changing travel patterns and needs of commuters.

Historical Context

Singapore's transport network has evolved significantly since the 1950s when buses were the primary mode of public transport. The introduction of the MRT system in 1987 marked a significant shift, but buses have continued to play a complementary role. The new Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme mirrors earlier efforts like the $1.1 billion Bus Service Enhancement Programme, which added 1,000 buses and introduced 80 services between 2012 and 2017.

Future Outlook

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) will continue to review and adjust the bus network to ensure it meets the needs of commuters. Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat highlighted the importance of optimizing current bus routes while also investing additional resources to meet the commuting needs of residents. "We have decided to pump in additional resources from the Government to provide better connectivity and services for our residents," he said.