Bus operator Go-Ahead Singapore is taking measures to address commuter complaints of longer waiting times and irregular bus arrivals in the Tampines area following its takeover of local services in July.

Since July 19, Go-Ahead has been operating 29 bus routes in Tampines, having taken over from SBS Transit. After complaints from residents about unpredictability in bus schedules—specifically longer wait times and bus bunching, where multiple buses arrive simultaneously—Tampines GRC MP Baey Yam Keng, who also serves as Minister of State for Transport and Culture, Community and Youth, engaged with Go-Ahead management to relay commuter concerns.

In response, Go-Ahead has intensified support and training for its bus captains. A spokeswoman for the operator explained that around 40% of the drivers on these routes are new and are still becoming familiar with the conditions and layouts of their assigned journeys. To help them adjust, the operator is increasing on-the-ground guidance, with more experienced bus captains mentoring newer colleagues. Additional operations staff have been deployed at major bus interchanges and stops to monitor real-time service conditions and assist drivers when necessary. These measures aim to improve service reliability and maintain regular intervals between buses.

Baey noted that the transition has involved operational changes beyond the driver workforce, including a move to a new base of operations at the East Coast Integrated Depot in Changi. Previously, buses operated out of SBS Transit’s Bedok North depot. Drivers must now adapt to altered “off-service” routes traveling to and from the depot, which affects travel time and logistical arrangements such as meal breaks. Baey indicated that these changes may have contributed to some initial attendance or performance challenges among drivers, indirectly impacting service consistency. However, he added that most of these issues have since been addressed.

To further improve service, Go-Ahead and Tampines GRC representatives have proposed enhanced monitoring of waiting times at key bus stops to identify recurrent delays and bus bunching, enabling targeted interventions. Baey emphasized that continued collaboration with the Land Transport Authority and Go-Ahead Singapore will be critical to tracking progress and ensuring commuters experience more dependable bus journeys.

Go-Ahead said it remains committed to closely observing operational performance and making ongoing adjustments to enhance reliability. The operator expressed optimism that service standards have improved since the start of the transition and pledged to sustain efforts supporting bus captains and operational oversight.