Mass Rapid Transit :: SINGAPORE ::

Local Views

To allow you to have a better understanding of the MRT system in Singapore, we conducted a few interviews with the local residents in order to show you what Singaporeans from various walks of life feel about the MRT system in Singapore.

Discontentment

Even though SMRT Corporation and SBS Transit are constantly trying to find ways to improve the MRT system and to satisfy the locals, there are Singaporeans who are not satisfied with the MRT system in Singapore. Lisa Koh, 15, a student, feels that the "trains are so packed at peak hours plus with so many people squeezing, I always get bummed into roughly".

A working adult, who did not wished to be named, also agrees by saying that "Though trains are arriving at shorter time intervals, it is still crowded. Sometimes, I have to wait for the next train as it is too full."

On the accessibility for the elderly, an elderly woman commented that "The lift is so far away if you are at the oppposite ends of the train. Old people like us have to walk very far just to take the lift."

Expectations

From the previous views, it is evident that it is tough to please everyone. Because of the ever growing population in Singapore and the accessibility of the MRT, more and more Singaporeans prefer travelling on the MRT. Changes are now being implemented, and various lines are being developed, in order in improve the MRT in Singapore. And with these changes, comes the expectations:

Jiamin, 16, a student, is looking forward to these changes as "It will be more accessible for me as the East West Line is extending towards the inner part of Jurong West."

Mr Paul Lim, 33, an accountant, also "expect that during peak hours, the trains will not be too crowded since various lines are developing."

Satisfaction

Of course, there are people who are satisfied with the MRT system.

Jonathan Tay, 19, a student, commented that he "hear the announcments frequently. They are always about alerting the staff about suspicious characters or standing behind the yellow line. I find this quite helpful and useful in alerting and reminding me."

Another student, Miranda Chua, also feels that the MRT "is a safe, reliable and fast way to travel. There is no need to worry because the staff are always very vigilant and everyone is constantly reminded to be alert."

When asked about the rides during peak hours, Miranda also added that she "don't really mind. A lot of Singaporeans complain that during peak hours, the rides are really packed. I do agree. But compared to other countries, I think that the situation here isn't that bad."

Conclusion

The public we interviewed are satisfied with what the future of the MRT will provide for them and most responded with the notion of it being more convenient and accessible. Also, some responded that at peak hours there will be less people squeezing up onto trains, resulting in less congested trains during peak hours.

However, at present, most felt that there is space for improvement. The two main areas that they felt could be improved are in the accessibility for the elderly and the train arrivals during peak hours.

Majority of the public felt that during peak hours, one usually has to squeeze up onto the train or wait for another one. Trains are also usually crowded so much so one cannot stand comfortably without hitting someone. The public feels that shorter time intervals should be implemented and more empty train carriages be released during those hours.

Another part is that some stations have lifts situated so sparsely that one will have to walk quite a distance to get to it. Elderly people have also given comments that more lifts be situated at the MRT stations so that it will be more easier for them to use them.

next: Our Prospected Future