Sunday, October 14, 2007
Differences
Siwei's comment reminded me that it totally slipped my mind to contrast the STARK differences between public transport in Stuttgart and Singapore.
First difference: Regardless of it being the bus, U-Bahn, S-Bahn or some other trains, they always come punctually. Right to the minute. If the plan says the bus will come at 8:53, most of the time it will arrive at 8:53. Singapore? They came up with the IRIS and I don't see a reason why people should waste money sending SMS to check the bus timings since it most probably won't be correct.
Second difference: Going out/travelling in Stuttgart is so much more convenient. We don't actually have to pay before every single trip. Just buy a pass at the beginning of the month if you commute by public transport frequently. Almost hassle-free! Plus with my FOC Verbundpass for the whole semester, it was hassle-free. The pass was valid up till the end of last month and it was quite a waste I couldn't give it to Siwei or Ziming since neither look like a girl, I reckon.
Third difference: It is not uncommon to witness a strike Stuttgart but if it ever happens in Singapore, I think people might go ballistic. I glanced through a recent news report and the public transport workers are asking for a 31% increase in pay rise!
Fourth difference: Public transport means it is to cater to the general public, in fact that means just about everyone right? Why is there such emphasis on profit maximization? I refuse to feel justified towards the rise in fares for senior citizens because it seems that the increase is supported by facts that are distorted to deceive the general public.
First difference: Regardless of it being the bus, U-Bahn, S-Bahn or some other trains, they always come punctually. Right to the minute. If the plan says the bus will come at 8:53, most of the time it will arrive at 8:53. Singapore? They came up with the IRIS and I don't see a reason why people should waste money sending SMS to check the bus timings since it most probably won't be correct.
Second difference: Going out/travelling in Stuttgart is so much more convenient. We don't actually have to pay before every single trip. Just buy a pass at the beginning of the month if you commute by public transport frequently. Almost hassle-free! Plus with my FOC Verbundpass for the whole semester, it was hassle-free. The pass was valid up till the end of last month and it was quite a waste I couldn't give it to Siwei or Ziming since neither look like a girl, I reckon.
Third difference: It is not uncommon to witness a strike Stuttgart but if it ever happens in Singapore, I think people might go ballistic. I glanced through a recent news report and the public transport workers are asking for a 31% increase in pay rise!
Fourth difference: Public transport means it is to cater to the general public, in fact that means just about everyone right? Why is there such emphasis on profit maximization? I refuse to feel justified towards the rise in fares for senior citizens because it seems that the increase is supported by facts that are distorted to deceive the general public.