Pre-peak MRT crowd problem building up

I may not have in-depth knowledge of how SMRT Corporation defines peak periods and sets train frequency, but I believe that most commuters’ expectations are simple: Punctual, pleasant train rides.

Being unable to board the train or travelling in an overcrowded one fails to meet these expectations.

I take the westbound train from Simei at 7am on weekdays and have noticed that the train frequency has been four minutes lately, from three minutes a few months ago.

As a result, the train becomes so crowded that some passengers at subsequent stations cannot board. Platform assistants are deployed at these stations to remind passengers to move inside, to let in more passengers.

The operator is thus aware of the crowd situation, so I wonder why it does not increase the train frequency. Deploying platform assistants is not an effective solution to the root problem.

The Government is funding the free pre-peak travel trial with a view to spreading out the crowds, which is starting to have impact, and yet SMRT has reduced the train frequency. I hope that cost-cutting is not the motive.

As a public transport provider, SMRT should make better service its top priority.