'Wheelchairs don't fold': Disabled People's Association, users concerned over LTA's priority bay trial
The Disabled People's Association in Singapore is raising concerns over a new public transport trial that shares priority bus bays between wheelchair users and parents with strollers. Advocates argue that wheelchair users rely on these bays as an essential accessibility feature, whereas strollers are often foldable.
Why it matters
The debate highlights the tension between inclusive design policies and the practical needs of different groups within the disability and commuter communities.
The conversation over the Land Transport Authority's (LTA) "First to Board, First to Use" trial has evolved beyond strollers and prams, with wheelchair users and disability advocates weighing in their concerns on accessibility needs and wants.
The Disabled People's Association (DPA) said in an Instagram post on Sunday (July 26): "A wheelchair doesn't fold. A stroller usually does."
"For wheelchair users, that bay isn't a preference — it's often the only way to travel accessibly and affordably.
"Better bus designs can serve wheelchair users and parents with strollers. Removing an access need shouldn't be the trade-off," it added.
The "First to Board, First to Use" trial is part of an initiative to make public transport more inclusive for commuters.
From April to September, 10 bus services will have their priority bays become shared for wheelchair users, mobility aid users and parents travelling with children in strollers.
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