WHILE the inexpensive Circle Line Train has become increasingly popular with commuters in Yangon, the vast majority of people still rely on the city’s bus system to get around town.

Last year the public transportation sector got a boost with the appearance of privately run, “special” bus lines that allow only a limited number of standing passengers, do not delay at bus stops and run on fixed fares. Many have even been installed with LCD screens that show entertainment programs and advertisements.

The buses immediately became popular with passengers who demand comfort and punctuality while commuting.

The first private bus line, Shwe Eai The, is now running on two routes, while Adipati, which is owned by Bandoola Transportation Limited, is operating on four routes using air-conditioned buses.

The government-run Yangon Buses Control Committee, which operates the largest number of bus lines in Yangon, launched its first special line on June 1 with 36 reconditioned city buses plying the route from Insein to Sule. The service replaced the No 48 bus line previously run using old wood-bodied Chevrolet trucks.

With these special lines charging higher fares in exchange for better service, bus company owners say they understand the need to enforce stricter regulations to keep customers happy.

A spokesperson from Adipati told The Myanmar Times that the company has adopted a strict set of rules for both staff and passengers, such as allowing no more than five standing passengers in each bus.

“We found that passengers have welcomed the introduction of these special lines because they can get to their destinations peacefully and in a short time,” he said.

“But we have some passengers who try to force their way onto the buses even though doing so will mean exceeding the maximum passenger limit.”

An official from Bandoola said extra responsibilities for special bus lines include making sure the air conditioners are working and stipulating that bus staff wear uniforms.

“The discipline of bus drivers and other staff is vital. If they are found breaking the rules of the bus line, they are fined,” he said.

“When an accident occurs, the drivers and conductors together must pay K500,000 to the company apart from the fine paid to the Yangon Traffic Police Force. If there is no accident for a month, we award a bonus to them,” he said.
An official from the Yangon Buses Control Committee told The Myanmar Times that the special buses have quickly become a popular transportation option among ordinary bus and taxi users.

“We have told the staff on our special bus line that they must adhere to strict rules and regulations, that they must develop better public relations skills and that they must have a neat and tidy appearance,” he said.

The committee assigns inspectors at each bus stop to ensure that rules are being followed on both ordinary and special buses.

“Passengers can contact the committee with complaints about our buses,” the official said, adding that the committee plans to run more special lines depending on the import of more buses.

Ma Myo Myo Aye, a Bahan township resident who regularly uses special bus lines, said she prefers the service because it is quicker than regular buses.

“I especially like taking the special buses in summer. For only K50 or K100 more than normal buses, I can be comfortable and cool when I travel.

“Sometimes I have to stand when all the seats are taken but that’s okay because the rides never take long. I like being on the bus and watching entertainment programs on the TV, although sometimes the staff forget to give receipts when we pay the fare.”

She said she hopes more special bus lines will start running to different destinations throughout Yangon.

Another frequent passenger, Ko Thant Zin, said he has found that some buses on special lines do not switch on the air conditioners, and some exceed the maximum number of standing passengers, causing problems with overcrowding.

“Passengers pay more for these buses, so I think the companies need to make sure the passengers are comfortable. On the other hand, people shouldn’t force their way onto buses that are already carrying the maximum number of passengers.

“Both sides have to abide by the rules,” he said.