Prepunost, nepromišljeno ponašanje, problemi s klima-uređajem među glavnim problemima putnika: istraživanje PTC-a

Crowding, inconsiderate behaviour, air-con issues among top commuter concerns: PTC survey Singapore commuters highlighted crowding, irregular bus waiting times, and poor air conditioning on trains as their top concerns in a recent survey conducted by the Public Transport Council (PTC). Released on July 20, the findings are based on the Public Transport Customer Satisfaction Survey 2025, along with feedback gathered through focus groups and public input from 5,505 participants. Despite these challenges, 87% of respondents expressed overall satisfaction with the country’s public transport system. An additional survey targeting point-to-point transport services revealed that 96% of commuters were content with these services. Irregular waiting times and overcrowding emerged as the most pressing issues. Commuters reported that buses often arrived inconsistently, with some services experiencing rapid arrivals followed by long gaps. This inconsistency was particularly frustrating for those traveling with young children or individuals requiring mobility aids, as peak-hour crowding made movement difficult. Many also cited unreliable bus arrival information as a major inconvenience, noting that the lack of accurate timing data hindered effective journey planning. The PTC acknowledged that improving service consistency requires addressing staffing challenges, particularly the recruitment and retention of bus captains. These personnel are crucial for maintaining regularity, especially during traffic disruptions or unexpected absences. In response, transport operators have introduced initiatives such as higher starting salaries and improved sign-on incentives to attract and retain bus captains. Additionally, the PTC is exploring enhancements to journey-planning apps to provide commuters with more accurate and timely information. Train services also faced criticism, with many reporting that carriages were increasingly packed, leading to difficulties in boarding and insufficient train frequencies to meet demand. Suggestions from commuters included increasing train frequency, extending operating hours, and introducing longer or additional trains to accommodate growing passenger numbers. The PTC noted that existing measures, such as the addition of more double-decker buses and the expansion of express city direct services, have helped alleviate some pressures. However, overcrowding and waiting times persist, prompting calls for better crowd management strategies. In addition to infrastructure-related concerns, the PTC identified inconsiderate commuter behaviour as a notable issue. Feedback indicated that loud music or video playback, as well as reluctance to give up seats to those in need, contributed to a less pleasant environment. To address this, the PTC emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of mutual respect and consideration among passengers. Efforts include promoting awareness campaigns and encouraging courteous conduct through community engagement. The PTC also addressed concerns over inadequate air conditioning in train carriages, particularly during peak hours. Commuters described some carriages as uncomfortably warm, with ventilation systems failing to maintain a comfortable temperature. While the PTC confirmed that train temperatures are regulated, some passengers reported that cooling levels were barely noticeable, especially during hotter months. The council is considering the deployment of passenger load indicators, similar to those on the Downtown Line, to help commuters select less crowded carriages. Beyond the technical and behavioural factors, the PTC acknowledged the broader societal context of public transport usage. For instance, a personal account from a mother of five highlighted the practical necessity of car ownership for managing daily routines. Without a car, her family’s school runs and extracurricular activities would consume nearly 10 hours a day, making it nearly impossible to balance work and family life. Her experience reflects a common sentiment among parents in Singapore, who view private vehicles as essential tools for navigating the demands of modern living. Looking ahead, the PTC plans to collaborate with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and transport operators to implement targeted improvements. These include enhancing boarding efficiency through rear-door access on buses, deploying marshals at busy stations, and utilizing digital signage to guide passengers toward less congested services. The council also aims to refine its approach to fostering a more considerate commuting culture, ensuring that both infrastructure and social norms contribute to a more seamless public transport experience.