Text (take) me to LTA II: They do return......
Nope. Not the ghosts. It’s LTA’s newly launched SMS channel (77-LTA).
I sent in a SMS query in the morning – just to test the new system. True enough, I got an automated reply acknowledging my feedback. But what followed wasn’t what I expected.
I got a return call from LTA – on a Sunday morning! Also, they clearly demonstrated the spirit of going-the-extra-mile by repeatedly trying to reach me on my phone when I was unable to pick up the call. I’ve lost count, but I think I got at least 7 missed calls from them within two hours. I thought a SMS reply is more than enough for my simple query.
I managed to ask the staff who called me whether this channel will be manned 24/7, which he replied yes. But, he called again later to correct that it will be manned during office hours only, and that today (a Sunday) is an exception due to the first day of launching. I must say I'm impressed with the effort they put in.
In case you're wondering, this is what I text to them:
“Are there any additional telco charges for this SMS channel?”
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4 comments:
Dear Daniel,
Thanks for enlightening us with such a light-hearted post.
I would have expected you to SMS them with a "3 bus 14 go by with only 1 bus 16, y liddat?".
For the record, are there any additional telco charges for the SMSes?
Regards,
Maz
Dear Maz,
Frequency of 16 should be better than 14, so it would sound more convincing if I send in "3 bus 16 go by with only 1 bus 14, y liddat". ;) I'll make sure I send in something similar if I happen to spot any (poor Daniel has no car).
It's free, other than the usual 5 cents imposed by telecommunication companies.
Regards,
Daniel
Dear Daniel,
Though bus 16 has better frequency than bus 14, 3 of bus 14 whizzing by would mean that something wrong did happen to bus 16, as what I experienced last Saturday (aargh!!).
I have a mini quiz for you: If I were to send an sms that "3 bus 16 go by with oni 1 bus 14, y liddat?", which stretch of road would I be?
This should be easy for you, mate.
Regards,
Maz
Dear Maz,
I'm sorry to learn about your experience. It would be good if you can feedback to SBS Transit so they can review and take the necessary actions. A more effective method is to text in to LTA using 77LTA (77582).
There are not many roads that have both bus 14 and 16. They duplicates each other starting from Orchard Tangs to Nicoll Highway. My guess is you were most likely waiting at Orchard Road. =)
And why the duplication? Basic Bus Service Standard issued by PTC many years back could offer some answers. I'll leave you to do your own research.
Regards,
Daniel
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