Task Force to Conclude Review by Mid-2025
In a response to recent bus accidents, Singapore’s newly formed Bus Safety Task Force is now turning to international experts for guidance. The initiative, announced in July following a series of mishaps, is led by Minister of State for Transport Murali Pillai. The task force has engaged with professionals from Australia, South Korea, and the UK to learn from their safety protocols.
The group plans to wrap up its comprehensive safety review by the first half of 2025. Since its inception, extensive local consultations have been conducted. Feedback was gathered from over 2,300 public members and 3,400 bus captains through surveys and focus groups. Discussions with the four bus operators – SBS Transit, SMRT Buses, Go-Ahead Singapore, and Tower Transit Singapore – have also been pivotal in understanding current safety practices.
The task force has particularly focused on enhancing safety for the elderly, addressing issues like sudden deceleration which could be hazardous for senior citizens. Education on avoiding upper decks for those with mobility challenges is another focal point.
Despite recent accidents, the number of serious incidents has not significantly increased, with 75 cases reported in the first five months of 2024. This number is consistent with the annual count of 207 in 2023 and 2022. The task force comprises representatives from government bodies, unions, and safety councils, all working towards safer public transport in Singapore.
