The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is modifying bus stops across the country to accommodate more than 500 public buses equipped with three doors. The initiative aims to facilitate smoother boarding and alighting for commuters.
Infrastructure Constraints and Safety
Despite the modifications, LTA noted that site constraints prevent all bus stops from being updated. At locations deemed unsafe, the third door will remain closed.
In these instances, bus captains are instructed to advise passengers to use the second door for safety. LTA explained that at certain stops, a third door would open directly onto the road rather than a proper platform.
Specific examples of these constraints include a stop at East Coast Apartments on Telok Kurau Road, which is shorter in length and located between residential building exits. Another stop on Telok Kurau Road, before Saint Patrick’s Road, could result in passengers stepping onto a grass patch.
Other problematic sites include the Sing-China Building on Piccadilly Road, where metal beam barriers exist on both sides. Commuters have also highlighted a stop opposite the National Library on North Bridge Road, where the door might open to a grass patch or safety bollard, and a stop after Paya Lebar Crescent blocked by an overhead bridge pillar.
Impact on the Commuter Experience
Notices were placed on the third doors of buses in 2025 to warn passengers that the rear door may not open at all stops. This has led to online discussions and reports of passenger confusion.
Mr Mark Chua, a content creator in his 30s who uses service 970, observed that passengers are often thrown off-guard when unable to disembark from the third door. He suggested this could defeat the purpose of the design, as passengers may avoid moving to the back of the bus.
a passenger identified as Mr Ng reported instances on service 106 from Orchard towards Bukit Batok where drivers allegedly kept the third door closed despite an unobstructed platform. Mr Ng suggested this could be due to drivers being accustomed to keeping the door closed.
Fleet Growth and Future Deployment
The current fleet consists of 440 single-deck and 100 double-deck three-door buses. LTA stated that these vehicles were rolled out following successful trials in 2017 and 2018, noting that commuters welcomed the faster alighting process.
The deployment of these vehicles is expected to grow. From the end of 2026, another 300 three-door electric double-deckers will be progressively deployed for passenger service.
Bus operator Go-Ahead Singapore confirmed that its captains are trained to use the third door only at LTA-approved stops to ensure proper alignment and safe boarding. Operators SBS Transit and SMRT referred queries to LTA, while Tower Transit did not respond.
As the fleet expands, LTA may continue to evaluate which stops can be modified, though some locations may likely remain restricted due to permanent physical barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some three-door buses maintain the rear door closed?
Due to site constraints, some bus stops cannot be modified. In these cases, the third door may open onto the road, a grass patch, or be blocked by barriers or pillars, making it unsafe for passengers to alight.
How many three-door buses are currently in service?
We find currently 440 single-deck and 100 double-deck three-door buses in the public bus fleet.
What happens to the fleet at the end of 2026?
Another 300 three-door electric double-deckers will be progressively deployed for passenger service starting from the end of 2026.
Do you think infrastructure updates should always be completed before new vehicle features are introduced to the public?
