SINGAPORE: A recent post on Reddit featuring side-by-side photos of Singapore's MRT taken 30 years apart has ignited a wave of nostalgia among locals.

The comparison, highlighting the iconic North-South Line (NSL), emphasizes the significant transformation of Singapore's train system since 1992.

The Original Photo

The original photo was shared by a user who discovered it on Flickr, credited to a woman named Sarah who reminisced about her travels in 1992, capturing the simplicity and tranquility of the MRT during less crowded times.

Recreating the Moment

The post author painstakingly recreated the image in the present day, showcasing just how dramatically the MRT system has evolved, not just in aesthetics but in its operational capacity, which began on November 7, 1987.

Nostalgia from Commenters

Many commenters expressed their yearning for the so-called 'glory days' when riding the MRT was a more relaxed experience.

One Redditor noted, 'Even during peak hours, the trains weren’t overly crowded, and commuting felt comfortable.' They reminisced about a time when corporate culture supported employees with cars, making public transport usage less prevalent.

Changes Over the Years

Further comments drew stark contrasts to later years, with one observer recalling 2002's peak hour as already feeling busy, indicating a shift in workplace dynamics and the eventual population boom that contributed to crowded trains.

This nostalgia was echoed by another who lamented the absence of breakdowns and turbulence during their 1992 commute.

Fashion and System Improvements

Additionally, commenters pointed out noticeable shifts in fashion – a testament to changing times, with styles becoming more casual since the 1990s.

They also highlighted improvements in the MRT system's complexity, as new lines and routes have expanded over the years, making it more efficient yet busier.

Changes in Commuter Behavior

Subtle changes in commuter behavior were also noted; while people in 1992 might have been absorbed in newspapers or books, now they are often glued to their smartphones.

The conversation illustrated a growing emphasis on considerate commuting, reflected in priority seating signs that promote awareness and respect among passengers.

Collective Memory and Modern Challenges

As discussions continue to flourish online, Singaporeans are reminded that while the MRT has grown to accommodate a burgeoning population, the charm and ease of those 'glory days' remain etched in collective memory.

For many, the flood of fond memories rekindles a desire for a quieter, more seamless commuter experience as they navigate modern challenges.

Reflection on Urban Transport

What do you think? Are we forever longing for the good old days, or is the MRT still an essential model of urban transport today?