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Buses can wait at bus stops when no one boards to keep services on time: NTWU
"We understand that such pauses may be frustrating, especially when time is tight."
October 31, 2025, 05:16 PM
The National Transport Workers' Union (NTWU) has clarified the reasons as to why buses in Singapore sometimes remain at bus stops longer than expected, even when there are no passengers boarding or alighting.
In their post on Oct. 30, NTWU explained that bus routes are "carefully planned to serve the needs of all commuters".
To maintain a smooth and reliable service, bus captains must adhere to scheduled timings, including stopping at every bus stop, even if there are no passengers, to maintain the planned intervals.
However, NTWU acknowledged that road conditions "may be unpredictable at times ".
As such, bus drivers may occasionally slow down or stop briefly, under the direction of the control centre.
Such adjustments help prevent bus bunching, which is a situation where multiple buses on the same route arrive at stops simultaneously, leading to service disruptions and longer waiting times for passengers along the route.
Additionally, more time may be needed at some stops to allow elderly or pregnant passengers to be seated safely, and to deploy ramps for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs.
The union acknowledged that such pauses can be frustrating for commuters on a time crunch, but emphasised that "they are part of a larger effort to ensure a reliable and respectful journey for all".
Top photo via Unsplash
