Before 2002, residents in Singapore who were waiting for a bus had to do so while drowning in an ocean of their own sweat thanks to the unrelenting sun and humidity.
Things changed dramatically that year, however.
Toa Payoh residents were the first in Singapore to be given an air-conditioned bus interchange, which meant we could finally go to work and school without looking like we had showered with our clothes on.
Since then, many more air-conditioned bus interchanges have been built, giving commuters a much-needed respite from the heat.
Soon, Woodlands residents will have the same privilege.
Woodlands Bus Interchange, Now the Largest Integrated Transport Hub in S’pore, Will Open on 13 June
The new air-conditioned Woodlands Bus Interchange, which will be Singapore’s largest integrated transport hub, will open on 13 June, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced yesterday (17 May).
With an area of 41,500 square metres, the country’s 11th transport hub will be nearly 2.5 times as big as Toa Payoh’s integrated transport hub.
Not only will the hub link the air-conditioned bus interchange to MRT stations and nearby malls, it will also have inclusive facilities, such as:
- Graduated kerb edges to make boarding easier for passengers in wheelchairs
- Priority queue zones with seats for commuters with mobility needs
The hub will offer a nursing room and commuter care room for families with young children and those with special needs as well.
An air-conditioned staff canteen, a staff lounge, and a cleaners’ room will also be included to improve the quality of life for transport workers.
Berths equipped with a blinker-light reverse warning system will also help bus drivers park their buses safely.
4 Bus Services Will Continue to Operate at Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange
The Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange (WTBI), which began operations in 2016, will remain open for now.
In fact, four bus services—925/925M, 950, 961/961M, and 965—will continue to operate from the temporary interchange.
When asked for a reason for this move on Facebook, LTA explained in the comments section that it will help to reduce congestion.
“Over the years, both the bus volume and frequency have increased. By retaining WTBI, bus operations can be better spread out and the possibility of congestion is reduced between this facility and the soon-to-be-opened Woodlands ITH,” LTA said.
The other 25 services will have their termini and starting points moved to the new integrated transport hub.
No changes will be made to the routes of all 29 bus services, however.
“We seek commuters’ understanding that our bus operator(s) may require some time to familiarise themselves with the new ITH. LTA will monitor the situation closely and make any necessary adjustments to ensure smooth operations,” it said.
Feature Image: Facebook (Land Transport Authority – We Keep Your World Moving)
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