SINGAPORE –

On September 15, Yishun residents celebrated the launch of Bus Service 861, which is the inaugural service under a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving public bus connectivity, especially for those residing in newer developments. This ambitious plan is projected to cost as much as $900 million and aims to address the growing demand for robust public transport options.

Among the first riders were 34-year-old operations executive Ridzuan Danian and his wife, customer service executive Ashikin Chumino, who were ecstatic about the improvement. They expressed how the new service significantly eases their access to the North-South MRT Line. Previously limited to the often-crowded Yishun MRT station, the couple can now enjoy shorter travel times and direct routes to family homes along the bus line.

Service 861 began its operations bright and early at 5:30 a.m. on September 15, linking residents of Yishun East to the Canberra and Khatib MRT stations. This service is designed not only to enhance last-mile connectivity for Yishun and Sembawang areas but also to cater to the transport needs of local schools and community amenities like Khatib Polyclinic.

The rollout of Service 861 marks the start of the Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme, unveiled by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) back in July. This strategic plan aims to keep pace with significant housing expansions in recent years, ensuring new residents have immediate access to efficient public transport options without delays associated with population growth.

The LTA's initiative promises to introduce more express bus services during peak hours, enhance the frequency of certain routes, and introduce new bus trips where needed—all to be implemented over the next eight years.

Local MP Derrick Goh, representing Nee Soon GRC, underscores the importance of this service for residents in Yishun's new residential areas, such as Forest Spring and Meadow Spring, where occupancy has increased within the last two years. "As more new flats emerge, enhanced connectivity will be vital," Goh noted. By 2040, it is anticipated that approximately 10,000 new housing units will be established in Chencharu, another forthcoming HDB development in Yishun.

In addition to appealing to new residents, Goh highlighted that the service also facilitates easier access for older citizens to essential amenities, showcasing the inclusivity of the transport improvement initiative.

Before the introduction of Service 861, locals relied heavily on Service 801, which only provided limited connectivity and often led to long waits. Feedback from users, such as Felicia Hui, 35, revealed that weekends could entail waits of up to 20 minutes.

Tower Transit Singapore, the operator of the new bus service, announced that buses would arrive every 10 minutes during peak hours and up to 15 minutes during off-peak hours, with plans to adjust frequencies based on passenger demand.

Grassroots volunteers have teamed up with the LTA to educate residents on utilizing smartphone apps to check bus arrivals, making the transportation experience smoother and more user-friendly.

Beyond Yishun, other areas like Punggol and Tampines are also set to enjoy enhanced public transport services, addressing the growing urban demands. A new City Direct Service for Punggol residents will kick off in October, while those in Tampines North can look forward to improved access to Tampines MRT station by December.

Looking ahead, by the end of 2024, a new bus service is proposed to connect Toa Payoh East to the Thomson-East Coast and Circle MRT lines. Continuous evaluations of the bus network will ensure it meets the ever-evolving needs of Singapore’s residents.

The launch of Service 861 attracted over 80 enthusiastic bus fans at Khatib MRT station, eager to be part of the special ride marking the service's debut. Among them was 17-year-old Chow Tai Chong, who expressed excitement over reduced travel times and direct routes, highlighting how this service has revolutionized his commute.

As the new bus service continues to operate, many, including 21-year-old student Ong Jia Cheng, emphasize the utility of medium-distance routes like Service 861 in effectively connecting different residential estates within Singapore.

With Service 861 now in operation, Yishun residents are no longer just dreaming of efficient transport options—they are experiencing them daily! Keep an eye out for more updates as Singapore transforms its public transport landscape!