New shuttle service at Gardens by the Bay launched to help wheelchair users get around

Gardens by the Bay is set to become more wheelchair friendly with the addition of eight new 22 seater passenger shuttle buses, sponsored by SMRT. PHOTO: THE NEW PAPER/FILE

SINGAPORE - Wheelchair users will be able to enjoy free shuttle rides around Gardens by the Bay from July 20.

Sponsored by public transport operator SMRT, the eight new 22-seater passenger shuttles come with foldable access ramps at their rear, enabling wheelchair users to board the shuttle directly.

This is an upgrade from the current 14-seater vehicles plying the Gardens' shuttle route, which require wheelchair users to disembark from their wheelchair in order to board the service.

Said Dr Kiat W. Tan, chief executive officer of Gardens by the Bay: "It has always been our vision to be a garden that everyone can enjoy.

"We are thankful to SMRT for this new gift of mobility that will enable more people to visit the Gardens with ease and enjoy the wonders of nature."

One of the first wheelchair users to experience the new shuttle service was Mr Tan Tee Liang, 84, from the Awwa Rehab and Daycare Centre.

"It's comfortable and convenient. I would come here more often now with this new service," he said in Mandarin.

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