Forum: Too many MRT announcements could reduce impact of important messages
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As a commuter, I have noticed excessive announcements being broadcast both at stations and on board trains. While public service messages are important, we might have crossed the line into unnecessary noise pollution.
Some messages, while well-intentioned, might no longer serve a useful purpose. For example, there are announcements reminding elderly passengers or those with bulky items to use the lift.
It is common sense that those in need would have chosen the lift over escalators; reminding them is stating the obvious.
There are also other frequent reminders, such as minding the platform gap and keeping the station and trains clean, which are an overkill.
Commuters hear these repeatedly, and in four languages. This not only makes the environment perpetually noisy, but can also reduce the impact of genuinely important messages.
Do such repetitive announcements actually influence behaviour, or have they become background noise that most commuters tune out?
I suggest SMRT commission a survey to assess the effectiveness and public sentiment towards these announcements. They could use the results to improve commuter communications.
The broadcast of public service announcements should be selective. It should be limited to critical messages, such as service disruptions, reminders of the last train or safety alerts to mind the closing doors.
A good example would be ongoing targeted announcements on the temporary early closure and late opening of the Circle Line, which are timely and useful.
For other non-crucial reminders, SMRT may wish to explore other options to relay them. I am sure many commuters would appreciate a quieter and calmer commute.
David Lim Yeow Chuan
