Designing a better ride on public buses
Catering to various commuter groups part of LTA tender
requirements
PUBLIC buses will offer a better ride in the future as the Land
Transport Authority (LTA) studies how to improve their design.
It is looking at tweaks to improve commuter flow, for instance
getting passengers to move to the back of the bus, and to minimise
the time they take to board and alight.
It will also look at catering to different groups of commuters,
including the elderly who need seats, the visually challenged with
guide dogs, and travellers with bulky items.
Last week, the LTA called a tender asking manufacturers and
suppliers to submit design proposals based on these considerations,
and to build actual-size mockups of prototype buses.
“LTA is studying what enhancements in design and features could
be incorporated for future bus purchases and are best suited to
operations in Singapore,” a spokesman said.
The concept models must have passenger seats, driver’s cabin,
handrails and other interior and exterior fittings, according to
the tender documents.
A workable door system, interior lighting and air-conditioning
will also have to be installed.
The tender, which closes next month, requires companies to
consider factors such as comfort, safety and carrying capacity
during peak hours.
These concept buses – two single-deckers and two double-deckers
– will be shown to the public to gather their feedback.
This will be valuable when deciding on future bus purchases, LTA
said.
As the bus industry transits into a state contracting model, all
fleets and infrastructure will be government-owned, with routes
tendered out to operators to run.
The first tender package for 24 routes in the western part of
the island is expected to be awarded soon. Eight companies
shortlisted include local operators SBS Transit and SMRT, and
players from Australia, Britain and France.
A poll of 30 bus commuters found that enhancements relating to
safety, accessibility and comfort were top of their wishlists.
“I hope for more handrails, especially in the middle of the
bus,” said undergraduate Alison Ong, 20. Ms Clare Wong, 51, a
homemaker, wanted more space for big items like market trolleys and
luggage. Others suggested wider seats and more seating set aside
for the elderly and disabled.
Retiree Lee Ley Lun, 60, said: “How about some piped music and
brighter (interior) colours to cheer everyone up?” -ST
Two single-deck and two double-deck choices, that is identical
to how new buses are currently procured under BSEP.
In that case and considering the relatively short timeline,
don't expect the status quo to change too much.
Hong Kong operators seem to be sticking to this trend when it
comes to bulk purchases as well.