Buskers add to noise, crowd in train stations

Regular commuters of MRT trains have patiently waited for improvement and upgrading work to be completed, so the news that there will be faster train rides along the North-South Line from the fourth quarter was music to the ears.

However, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is wasting time and money on social experiments aimed at improving the commuter travel experience, such as having buskers perform at train platforms, decorated train carriages and staff clutching stuffed toys and giving out tissues (“Buskers, themed cabins for a better MRT experience”, June 30).

Buskers can already be seen performing outside stations sometimes and I do not see many people stopping to appreciate their performance, especially during peak periods.

The same goes for buskers performing in hawker centres and blasting music through their amplified speakers. It adds to my stress levels, such that I cannot eat in peace and enjoy a conversation with my friends or colleagues.

Train platforms are already crowded and noisy. Do we need more noise and buskers taking up needed space?

I would rather the LTA spend its time and money on further improving train services.

Is it any wonder then that people complain about the disconnect between what is needed on the ground and what policymakers decide?