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SMRT replies on bikes and dirty buses
Tue, Dec 25, 2007 The Straits Times
I REFER to the letters, 'Allow folded bikes on buses and trains' by Ms Ng Lai Yien (ST, Dec 17), 'Allow bikes on trains and build more skate parks' by Mr Freddie Wee (ST Online Forum, Dec 19) and 'Study issue carefully before making decision' by Mr Tan Tuan Khoon (ST Online Forum, Dec 19). We would like to clarify that large and bulky items such as bicycles are not allowed into our MRT system, as they may cause damage or injury to passengers. Furthermore, during an emergency where passengers need to be evacuated quickly and safely, the presence of large items could be a possible obstruction.

The foldable bicycle must be packed in a bag not larger than 81cm by 58cm by 30cm.

Similarly, folded bicycles are allowed on SMRT buses. However, our Service Leaders can use their discretion to stop any passengers carrying bulky items from boarding the bus if they cause discomfort and inconvenience to our passengers.

We thank all the writers for sharing their feedback with us.

I REFER to the letter, 'Thick layer of dust and dead cockroach in bus' by Madam Goh Li Lian (ST, Dec 17).

We would like to apologise for Madam Goh's unpleasant encounter on board bus service 190.

The affected bus has since been sent for thorough cleaning, following the feedback received.

We would like to assure Madam Goh that SMRT takes a serious view on the hygiene and cleanliness of our buses, and thank her for bringing the matter to our attention.

Kuek Chor Ling (Ms)
Manager, Corporate Marketing and Communications
SMRT Corporation