That’s very dangerous..
The recent incident at Bugis MRT station where an elderly man was seen riding the escalator while seated in a wheelchair has sparked safety concerns among commuters. The sight, witnessed by Mr. Deng, a retiree passing through the station, prompted fears for the man’s well-being as he balanced precariously on the moving steps. Describing the situation as “really dangerous,” Mr. Deng emphasized the potential risks involved in taking the escalator in a wheelchair, especially when travelling alone.
In a video shared by Mr. Deng, the elderly man is seen gripping both handrails tightly as his wheelchair navigates the escalator steps, with an orange plastic bag hanging from the handles. Despite signs advising passengers with bulky items to use the lift, incidents of individuals using the escalator with wheelchairs or prams are not uncommon at Bugis MRT station. This decision, driven by convenience, has resulted in injuries and falls, raising questions about the prioritization of safety over ease of access.
According to a source at Bugis MRT station, such occurrences are observed almost daily, with passengers opting for the escalator over the lift, regardless of the associated risks. This behavior was corroborated by reporters who noted parents choosing the escalator, situated far from the lift, for their convenience. The station’s personnel have been made aware of these incidents, with SMRT Trains president Lam Sheau Kai urging vulnerable groups – the elderly, young children, wheelchair users, and individuals with prams – to utilize the lifts for their safety and that of others.
