Clang! The metallic echo of a bus door closing resonates around Kampong Bahru Bus Terminal. Today, we explore this vital hub. Kampong Bahru Bus Terminal is more than just a place to catch a ride. It’s a relatively recent addition to Singapore’s transport network. It officially opened on March 10, 2018.
Before this terminal, there was another Kampong Bahru Bus Terminal in Radin Mas. But the current one has no connection to the old one. The Land Transport Authority announced it in May 2016. It sits on land formerly owned by Malayan Railways.
Kampong Bahru Bus Terminal replaced the New Bridge Road Bus Terminal. The old site was redeveloped into a surgery center for Singapore General Hospital. Originally scheduled to open in 2017, construction faced delays.
Now, Kampong Bahru Bus Terminal operates under the Bukit Merah Bus Package. SBS Transit manages this package. Several bus services connect here such as services 54, 120, and 122. Other bus packages also operate here. These include Loyang, Clementi and Choa Chu Kang-Bukit Panjang. Go-Ahead Singapore and SMRT Buses operate some of these services.
The terminal has accessible alighting and boarding points. It also offers accessible public toilets. Tactile guidance systems and graduated kerb edges aid passengers.
Kampong Bahru itself, also known as Kampong Tiong Bahru, is a subzone of Bukit Merah. The Urban Redevelopment Authority defines its boundaries. Ayer Rajah Expressway marks its southern edge. Kampong Bahru Road defines the east. Jalan Bukit Merah runs along the north. Lower Delta Road lies to the west.
Interestingly, Kampong Bukit Ho Swee was near Kampong Bahru. A massive fire in 1961 devastated that area. The Bukit Ho Swee fire displaced 16,000 people. It highlighted the need for safer housing. The government then launched a program to relocate kampung residents to modern flats.
Today, Kampong Bahru Bus Terminal stands as a symbol of progress and connectivity. It links people to various parts of Singapore. The bus terminal serves Outram Community Hospital and Singapore General Hospital. As buses arrive and depart, Kampong Bahru Bus Terminal continues to play its role. It ensures smooth commutes. It helps keep Singapore moving forward.