Singapore Commuters Resist SMRT Escalator Standing Trial
Commuters prioritize walking speed over SMRT's safety-focused initiative to stand on both sides.
1New Escalator Policy Trial
SMRT Trains has launched a month-long trial at City Hall and Raffles Place MRT stations to encourage commuters to stand on both sides of escalators. This initiative, which began on October 29, 2026, aims to improve safety and assess whether dual-side standing can optimize passenger capacity during peak hours.
2Deeply Ingrained Habits
Despite repeated announcements and signage, commuters remain reluctant to abandon the long-standing practice of keeping left. Interviews with ten commuters on November 7 revealed a unanimous preference for the traditional etiquette. Many passengers view the right side as a necessary lane for those in a hurry to pass others.
3Safety Versus Individual Speed
SMRT president Lam Sheau Kai stated that the trial seeks to mitigate risks associated with slips, trips, and falls. However, commuters argue that walking up the right side is essential for efficiency. Observations showed walkers completed the ride in 20 seconds, while those standing still required 30 seconds to finish.
4Global Escalator Etiquette Shifts
Other regions have implemented similar changes to address congestion and safety. London’s 2016 trial at Holborn station reportedly increased capacity by 30 percent, though safety improvements remained inconclusive. Meanwhile, Japanese cities like Nagoya and Saitama have introduced strict rules requiring passengers to remain stationary to prevent collisions and escalator-related injuries.
5Maintenance and Mechanical Impact
Beyond human safety, uneven usage significantly impacts infrastructure longevity. Studies in South Korea indicated that keeping one side clear increases wear on chain wheels and guide rails by over 95 percent. This imbalance shortens maintenance intervals by up to 20 percent, leading to higher repair costs for transport operators globally.
6Public Sentiment and Compliance
Public opinion remains divided on whether habits can realistically change. While some commuters believe Singaporeans will comply if the guidance becomes a formal rule, others view keeping left as a deeply ingrained social norm. Current observations confirm that most passengers continue to shift left even when the right side is empty.
7Operational Trade-offs Observed
The trial highlights a clear conflict between individual convenience and system-wide efficiency. During busy periods, the left-side queue often experiences delays exceeding 10 seconds. Conversely, attempts to merge into the left lane often obstruct the right side, inadvertently slowing down those who are attempting to walk up the escalator steps.
8Future Outlook for Commuters
SMRT will continue monitoring commuter behavior throughout the month to evaluate the trial's effectiveness. While international precedents suggest that standing on both sides improves capacity, the cultural resistance in Singapore poses a significant challenge. The operator must now determine if behavioral shifts are possible without implementing mandatory, strictly enforced rules.
Original article: CNA – Latest — Singapore Commuters Resist SMRT Escalator Standing Trial