bus

Think of transport in Brisbane and many people would groan at how lousy the transport system is. Unreliable, infrequent services, much better off driving most would say. My female owner, however, is quite impressed with some aspects of the bus system in Brisbane (note, bus only).

Firstly, they have dedicated lanes for buses. It is not like in Singapore, where bus lanes are sometimes invaded by other vehicles. These dedicate bus lanes are built just for buses and they run across the highways too.

Also, the infrastructure of major bus stops and many buses adhere to the principles of universal design. Hence, they cater to a wider range of patrons – the visually-impaired, hearing-impaired and people with mobility issues all benefit from different features installed to make travelling easily, creating a more inclusive society. Even the needs of parents with prams/ passengers with luggage are addressed, with ramps and fold-up chairs on buses which create the needed extra space.

Many bus-stops (not the major ones) also have electronic updates of estimated time of arrivals of buses. My female owner thought this was impressive simply because in Singapore, only busy stops get such electronic updates (no discrimination in other words).

In addition, with the exception of a few weirdos, the service provided by the bus captains has been professional and excellence. They wait for you to board the bus (and don’t drive off just as you are reaching the bus), greet you with smiles and pleasantries, drive safely and try their best to help you.

Of course, there are some things which my female owner thinks can be improved. Say, bus schedules can be better planned. Sometimes, the scheduled bus doesn’t turn up at all, leading to unnecessary stress. And the infrequent running of buses (especially over the weekends and school holidays) takes a toll on her travelling plans. But overall, she thinks that the bus system in Brisbane is commendable (although she would still prefer to have a car).