HOUGANG FEEDER BUS SERVICES

Mr Ng Kah Ting asked the Minister for Communications and Information if he will ascertain from the Singapore Bus Service (1978) Limited (i) whether the number and frequency of feeder bus services will be increased in Hougang New Town, particularly in Hougang Avenues 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 5 and 7 to meet the demand of commuters; and (ii) the reasons for the delay in responding to the demand.

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Communications and Information (Mr Ho Kah Leong) (for the Minister for Communications and Information): Sir, I have been asked by my Minister to reply.

Sir, the number and frequency of bus services are increased on an on-going basis as the population of Hougang New Town grows, as with other new housing estates. I have asked SBS to provide details of all future increases to the hon. Member. SBS will also liaise with the Member and his community leaders to obtain feedback on the requirements for feeder bus services in Hougang New Town.

Mr Ng Kah Ting: Mr Speaker, Sir, I think the Senior Parliamentary Secretary has not given the reasons for the delay in responding to the demand, ie, in part (ii) of my question.

Mr Ho Kah Leong: Sir, I cannot speak for SBS. But I do not see why if the passenger load is able to sustain relative viable route, the bus company should not want to provide a service. In any way, I shall convey the Member's anxiety to the bus company concerned.