Singaporean commuters divided after video shows uncle loading trolley on bus

SINGAPORE: A video of an uncle loading a trolley packed with bags onto a bus has left Singaporeans divided. While some saw nothing wrong with the act, others argued that bringing such a large load onboard was unfair to other passengers.

After an uncle was filmed trying to get a trolley loaded with packages onboard a bus, Singaporeans weighed in on the matter. The video uploader questioned if doing so was allowed. Some said it wasn’t, with one claiming that he was denied entry on a bus when he had a trolley with him. “Not allowed actually,” he said. “I brought an empty trolley to pick up something bulky a few blocks away and thought of taking the bus there and walking back. But I was rejected even if I folded the trolley.”

Others did not agree that using public transportation to load goods was acceptable. “More and more people are using the bus to transport goods and next time they’ll use the bus to move houses,” said one.

Another wrote, “How can this be happening in Singapore? This is a public passenger bus…not a loading and unloading public transportation.”

However, while some people did not agree that taking a trolley on the bus should be permitted, others took a completely different tone, and argued that not everyone can afford alternative modes of transportation in Singapore. “Not everybody can afford a cab,” said one, adding that the uncle with the trolley was able to minimise his expenses.

Many also commended the bus captain, who was seen helping the uncle load the package-laden trolley onto the bus, for having compassion on the man and for going the extra mile to help him. “This driver has a good heart,” said one. “It’s not easy for an elderly passenger to carry so many things. The driver helped him to save on cost also.”

Public transportation rules for buses

According to SBS Transit, there are several rules when it comes to bringing large items onboard a bus. For foldable bicycles and personal mobility devices (PMDs), there is a size limit of 120cm by 70cm by 40cm. Prams and open strollers are also allowed on buses, provided they are not more than  1200mm long and 700mm wide. They must be placed in the wheelchair space, and must not block the aisles.

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