In the heart of the bustling Admiralty MRT station, a 50-year-old woman, Mdm Wang, recently found herself in a bewildering situation.
Her trusted bicycle, a companion for a decade in her daily commute to work, was missing, and the reason behind its sudden disappearance left her discontented.
A Routine Disruption
Wang, a diligent cleaner, had seamlessly integrated her daily bicycle ride from home to the MRT station into her routine for a decade.
However, on a fateful day, November 2, 2023, she returned from work to discover her bicycle was no longer where she had parked it beside the walkway near the bus stop, according to Shin Min Daily News.
Wang, perplexed and frustrated, discovered a notice posted near the “parking area” a week prior. The notice directed bicycle owners to approach MRT station staff for their bicycles, with a caveat—a S$30 “removal fee.”
Wang, determined, refused to pay, arguing that many others habitually parked their bicycles in the same spot, oblivious to the new regulations.
Wang lamented that there were numerous elderly individuals unaware of the new policy, indicating a lack of proper communication about the changes. Her refusal to pay the fee echoed the sentiments of others who found themselves in similar predicaments.
SMRT’s Perspective
SMRT Trains’ President, Lam Sheau Kai, shed light on the situation. Lam highlighted the frequent complaints regarding “indiscriminate bicycle parking” that obstructed walkways and ramps around MRT stations.
Notices had been in place since September 2023, accompanied by pictorial signs and translations, urging bicycle owners to use designated parking bays.
Lam emphasized that bicycle users were given ample notice before their bicycles were removed. The initiative aimed at ensuring the safety of commuters and ramp users. He sought the understanding and cooperation of commuters and bicycle users in adhering to the new regulations for the collective safety of all.
Regulations and Penalties
Citing the Rapid Transit Systems Regulations, Lam highlighted the authority’s power to fine individuals up to S$5,000 for causing obstruction, hindrance, or danger on railway premises. Additionally, any unauthorized vehicle, including bicycles, could be removed, with owners incurring all related costs and expenses, along with a potential fine of up to S$5,000.