I used to pride Singapore Transport systems as one of the best. As far as I can remember, there were no major disruptions prior to the three last week. Like all news worthy saga, one news lead to another - 3 major disruptions, one death at NEL, one critically injury while on a bus. Just like the Bedok Reservoir floating bodies and the series of NTU death last year, when it starts to rain, it starts to pour. Unlike the previous two series of unfortunate events, a public transport disruption incurred much much more wrath from the general public. It should.
For the majority of the Singaporeans who do not drive, public transportation has a really strong influence on a scarce and deeply treasured resource call "time". Although not everyone use it wisely, some choose to upgrade themselves on a weekday night, some choose to spend quality time with their family after a long day at work and some may choose to rush home to play a game of DOTA. But any attempt to take it away will definitely bring out the best Singaporean spirit - Complaint in Unison. Who can blame us? We grew up in a environment that pride itself on efficiency where time is the very resource that defines it. Losing time on a stalled transportation is something that should not have happened if you are in Singapore.
Commuters has articulated this desire of not losing precious time on public transport in their numerous complaints about not being able to board buses and trains at peak hours. If losing one or two buses/trains (*5 to 10 min) is concern, missing out one entire evening out with friends and family is national problem. If SMRT had a proper contingency plan, Singaporeans would and should had been more forgiving. We all know, things are getting more and more complicated, and they will fail. Does Google place all its data centers in one city? However, contingency plans were slow to be activated and safety procedures for rescue were glaring absent. Yet, SMRT choose not to admit its flaws.
From the SMRT responses, track records and public comments surfacing on the new media recently, it is obvious that SMRT had focused on doing one thing and doing it good. That is generating profits - from its retails rentals and efficient nets of trains and buses. No one is blaming them for doing their job. However, did SMRT consider itself an essential public service provider that should endeavour to ensure Singaporeans precious time is not lost on waiting and sitting idly on non moving, non ventilating trains?
* arbitrary figures based totally on my own estimates
Other good reads:
Experts question use of plastic ties (I am seriously doubtful this will work. So no train for me till they fix the real problem.)
