In a troubling incident on 8 December 2024, nine individuals were taken to Tan Tock Seng Hospital following an accident involving two buses along Upper Thomson Road. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) reported that they were alerted to the scene at approximately 12.40pm.
The Incident
The accident occurred near the Shunfu Road Housing Board estate, where a bus belonging to Tower Transit collided with a stationary SBS Transit bus at a bus stop. A video circulating on social media shows the aftermath, with one bus suffering a severely shattered windscreen.
- A 46-year-old male bus driver and eight passengers—aged between 25 and 79—were taken to hospital.
- Two individuals were assessed for minor injuries but declined further medical assistance.
Response From Bus Operators
Grace Wu, a spokeswoman for SBS Transit, confirmed that their service 166 was stationary when it was rear-ended. “Our team was at the hospital to extend our care and support to them,” she remarked, highlighting their commitment to assisting those affected.
Investigation Underway
A 57-year-old male bus driver from Tower Transit is currently assisting police with their investigation. In light of recent accidents involving public buses, the Minister of State for Transport, Murali Pillai, is leading a task force to review safety measures within the sector.
Task Force Aims for Improved Safety
The task force, involving various public bus operators, government agencies, and the Singapore Road Safety Council, aims to identify best practices by early 2025. They also plan to engage international experts and regulators in the process.