SINGAPORE: A new basic bus service that is aimed at easing passenger load along the southbound section of the North-South-East-West (NSEW) MRT line will take off on July 7.

Bus Service 128 will operate between Ang Mo Kio Depot and Shenton Way Terminal. Its route will cover 13 MRT stations along the NSEW MRT line and selected bus stops in between these stations.

There will be four trips each during the morning and evening rush hour, and the number may be increased if demand is high.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said the scheme could also be implemented along other passenger-heavy sections of MRT lines if the need arises.

There are now 76 premium buses in operation – surpassing the original target of 72 announced by Transport Minister Raymond Lim in January.

These buses provide direct connections from residential areas such as Bukit Timah and Woodlands to central areas like Shenton Way and Orchard Road.

The LTA said the expansion is meant to give commuters more public transport alternatives.

The public can log on to the LTA website to give their suggestions for new premium bus routes.


- CNA/so