Bus passengers in Singapore can now be fined almost US$400 for playing music out loud
The new rules come into place today and apply to the entirety of the city state's bus network
Those playing music out loud on buses in Singapore could be fined up to SGD500 Singapore dollars (roughly USD391), per new rules put in place by the Land Transport Authority (LTA).
The LTA says that it hopes to foster a "safer, more considerate and pleasant public transport environment for all" by imposing this new rule, which mirrors existing regulations across Singapore’s rail network.
The rule takes effect as of today (Wednesday 23), and will apply to the city-state’s entire bus network. Bus staff such as ticket inspectors will be able to issue fines, per the LTA.
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It also comes alongside additional offences such as placing feet on seats, littering, and eating or drinking on the bus, which will also bring fines of up to $500 Singapore dollars.
More “serious” offences such as the "soiling of any part of a public bus, bus interchange, or terminal" or causing danger to other passengers could land larger fines of up to SGD5,000 Singapore dollars (around USD3,911).
"Public transport is a shared space, and every commuter has a part to play in ensuring a gracious and pleasant commuting environment," the LTA said.
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In August, UK pub chain Wetherspoons announced a ban on customers playing music and videos out loud from devices such as mobile phones and tablets.
It followed complaints from other customers, with claims that the noise was driving people "nuts". Staff are asked to use "common sense" to enforce the ban.
"In a world dominated by other people’s music and amplified sound, Wetherspoons pubs are an oasis of tranquillity and contemplation," said Wetherspoons founder and chairman Tim Martin.
Gemma Ross is Mixmag’s Associate Digital Editor
