It is time the SMRT takes a look at how the train service is being run, as it needs major improvements, from the ticket machines to the management of human traffic.

There use to be marshals patrolling the train. What happened to them? And where are the officers who once directed passengers in boarding and alighting? The SMRT also use to promote riding on the left side of the escalator. What happened to that?

From the moment that one reaches the platform, it seems one has to overcome various obstacles till the destination is reached.

Signs showing directions of human traffic are not followed. So how about putting up bigger signs in visible places instead of just on the ground?

Ticketing machines: They spit out your coins each time you slot them in. It is worse now with the EZLink top-up gadget. You cannot slot in your standard ticket without keying in your request anymore.

Gates: Not all gates are set to go in the direction you want. Sometimes, almost all the gates go in one direction on one side.

Escalators: Why not put up large adhesive signs on the side panels indicating where riders should stand?

Traffic flow: It also seems that the yellow lines on the platforms do not have an impact on anyone anymore. And why not allocate different doors for alighting and boarding like in some countries?

Boarding the train: It is bad enough that you have commuters not moving to the middle of the carriage. Yet, you have to endure passengers sleeping on the ground, blocking walkways, eating and occupying up to two seats.

Teachers in schools should teach students that social graciousness extends to the use of the train service. The message should also reach the elderly.

The SMRT should indeed learn from Japan's railway operator.

Joel Tan Cheng Chye