Money can be better spent on measures to cut waiting time

I was very concerned after reading the report that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is studying the feasibility of installing fans at bus stops ("Fans at bus stops to cool you down? Cool!"; Monday).

I am a bus commuter but I wonder why there is a need to install fans at bus stops at all.

All bus stops here are naturally ventilated, which is the most cost-effective way. Why do we need to do more to "improve ventilation"?

In view of the efficiency of our public transport system, the average waiting time for a bus should be around 10 minutes during peak hours.

Is it not possible for commuters to endure the 10 minutes of heat as they wait?

After all, we do not encounter unbearable heat all year round and can enjoy cool comfort in the bus after the wait.

Besides the maintenance costs, the LTA should also take into consideration vandalism, which is not uncommon here.

The money spent on the fans could be better used in areas meant to reduce commuters' waiting time.

The trial to improve the display of arrival timing boards is a good move. Providing more accurate information on bus arrival times through apps will also be welcome.

I hope that taxpayers' money will be spent more meaningfully.

Koh Kha Eng (Madam)

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on July 27, 2016, with the headline Money can be better spent on measures to cut waiting time. Subscribe