The Truth About 'Late' Buses

Singapore is just like any country out there - ang moh-fied, very popular political figures, rising cost of living.

But of course, we have different parts of life which are considered first class. Our social security, for example, proves to be beneficial to citizens and tourists alike. We are also first class in terms of government funds, never to worry about running low on finances while banks are crashing down.

Well, then there are the pretty good services. I tend to look at our bus system as one people can be proud of:)
However, it seems that a number of people fail to see that. Instead, they blame the bus services and traffic inadequacy whenever a bus arrives late. Living in Hougang and studying in Ngee Ann Polytechnic, I know how frustrating it can get when bus service 74 takes an extra 45minutes to reach my destination, resulting in a major reprimanding from the lecturer (or absentism in the process).

Of course, I beg to differ with those who points their fingers at the drivers and company. Why do I think so? While it is easy for me to get a seat, since the stop I board at is one of the first few in the route, not everyone gets a seat. Here comes the trouble - what do they do when they're left to stand on the bus? BLOCK THE BLOODY TRAIL!

There's a reason why we can't get to board the 'crowded' bus, or spend a minute at each stop. Here's why, there are people standing by the front end of the bus, blocking the way. This creates the second problem - the driver refuses to drive off as he knows that there are places behind and faithfully waits for these blockheads to wake up and realise the sanctuary at the back. Of course, it never happens and we take a minute to leave the stop.

So guess what? Even with a minor jam, our school's shuttle bus which travels from Hougang bus interchange direct to school only takes 50 minutes at max! Factor that into our travel route, that makes a total waiting time of 40 minutes along the bus stops!

Look, I'm not asking for passengers to squeeze like sardines in a can, I'm just asking for you to move to the back. You can leave your personal space if you want, just move in! Ok, so you want to stay with your girlfriend, go ahead and stand next to her, but PLEASE leave some proper space behind you for people to walk by! You don't have to bend of and let the other guy smell your butt do you?

BAH!