SMRT provides safer and more reliable bus services using telematics solutions

Commuters traveling on SMRT buses can now look forward to a more comfortable ride as the public transport operator continues its efforts to improve the commuter experience through safety, reliability, care and comfort.

Since early 2014, SMRT began trials on telematics technology. Following the success of the trials, telematics devices have been installed on SMRT’s bus fleet from May 2014. The telematics device is able to provide real time tracking and analysis of driving parameters such as the speed of the bus, how the bus negotiates a corner, abrupt switching of lanes and sudden acceleration/deceleration. This data can be analysed to reinforce positive driving practices and correct poor driving behavior of our Bus Captains, thereby ensuring the safety and improving the comfort for commuters.

As part of the collaboration with NEC Asia Pacific, SMRT is also employing business analytics which leverages on Big Data technologies to study driving behavior, driver profiles and historical route related information. This will enable SMRT to better understand any risks and improve safety by identifying areas for pre-emptive intervention.

In addition, using the information received from the telematics device, a decision support system will be developed to improve the control of bus operations, particularly in the management of the Bus Service Reliability Framework (BSRF). By monitoring the exact location of each bus and the distance between buses, the decision support system will provide our service controllers with solution options to better control schedule adherence and reduce bus bunching. SMRT has also ported the telematics information onto a mobile computer tablet, allowing route controllers equipped with this tablet to track the location of SMRT buses in real time. By positioning route controllers at strategic bus stops, they will be able to regulate headway between buses accordingly.

SMRT has also enhanced the information needs of our commuters by using the NEC Information Display Solution. SMRT buses will be equipped with a panel that displays the estimated arrival time and passenger load information of the next bus. Within the bus interchanges, other than the arrival time, the panel also shows traffic conditions and other useful information required by commuters.

Mr Tan Kian Heong, Vice President, SMRT Buses, said: “These initiatives underscore SMRT’s ongoing commitment to deliver a positive experience to our commuters - one that is safe, reliable and comfortable. SMRT Buses will continue to leverage on technology, refine our work processes and build a competent and motivated work force to upkeep the high standard of service that the public expects from us."