Shortage of school buses for new school term next year
Some private bus operators have decided to give up part of their school bus services, and about 100 school buses have moved to the public bus industry. <!-- /tab-gallery-area -->
SINGAPORE: The supply of school buses is estimated to be tight when the new school term starts next year.
About seven to eight private bus operators have decided to give up part of their school bus services. As of now, about 100 school buses have moved to the public bus industry, following the Government's move to expand its public bus services.
Due to a shortage of school bus drivers, there has been a lukewarm response by school bus operators to tenders for school bus operators. As a result, Canossian School is engaging bus operators directly instead of going through the bidding process.
When contacted, the Education Ministry said it is working closely with the school bus operators and will inform parents on arrangements as soon as possible.
The Singapore School Transport Association added it is difficult to offer school bus services because it is hard to employ local bus drivers even by offering higher pay. Bus operators are also restricted in the amount that they can charge students.
- CNA/xy