How a community’s attachment to a bus route overcame practical policies, if only temporarily.
SINGAPORE – Bus Service 167’s reprieve from termination is a small yet symbolic win for public transport users, proving that even a humble bus route can stir the hearts of Singaporeans. Two weeks after the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced its discontinuation due to declining ridership, a reversal was made following public outcry.
The reinstated route will operate at 30-minute intervals, a reduction from its original frequency. While not a full victory, it has been celebrated as a testament to the power of collective voices.
A Community Rallying Behind a Bus
The initial announcement to cut Bus 167 drew ire online, with critics accusing the LTA of prioritizing efficiency over commuters’ convenience. Comments on platforms like Reddit and an online petition by Kiwi Lim, which garnered over 800 signatures, highlighted the deep connection Singaporeans feel toward this long trunk service, which connects neighborhoods like Sembawang and Bukit Merah.
A Rational Policy, But an Emotional Loss
LTA attributed the decision to overlap between the bus route and the Thomson-East Coast MRT Line (TEL), citing the need for efficient resource allocation. From an economic perspective, MRTs, with higher capacities, offer a better solution for mass transit.
However, for many, bus rides offer something the MRT cannot—peace, scenery, and an uninterrupted journey. Commuters bemoaned the extra steps required for transfers, the overcrowded train rides, and the lack of personal space on MRTs.
The Charm of Bus Rides
For avid bus riders, the appeal lies in the simplicity and comfort of the experience. Unlike the claustrophobic tunnels of MRT commutes, buses provide a view of Singapore’s vibrant streets and greenery. For many, these moments of tranquillity and reflection during long bus rides offer solace in their hectic lives.
An Underdog Story Worth Celebrating
Despite Singapore’s globally lauded public transport system, the push for MRT dominance often feels like a disruption to cherished habits. The outpouring of support for Bus 167 reflects the emotional weight commuters attach to familiar routines.
Although the service’s future remains uncertain, its temporary revival is a reminder that even small voices can make a difference. For now, bus lovers can take pride in their role in flipping the script, proving that sometimes, even in the face of pragmatism, sentimentality prevails.
A win, no matter how small, is still a win.
