STC targets 120 new buses to combat mounting terminal delays

State Transport Company (STC) is taking urgent steps to address concerns over long waiting times and bus conditions, following public frustration at terminals across the country. Management says plans are underway to add nearly 120 new buses before the close of the year. This is expected to ease pressure on its fleet and improve passenger experience nationwide.

Nuru Hamidan, the company's Deputy Managing Director for Finance and Administration, acknowledged operational difficulties but defended STC's maintenance procedures, insisting that passenger safety remains the company's highest priority. He said, "We have standards that we follow. What differentiates us from other buses is safety. Whenever a bus offloads passengers, it goes straight to the workshop for proper checks before it hits the road again." He admitted that the company's current fleet size is insufficient to meet rising passenger demand, especially during peak travel periods, contributing to overcrowding and extended waiting hours at some stations. Passengers complained about spending several hours at terminals waiting for buses.

STC says it is working to stabilise operations while awaiting the arrival of additional buses expected later this year. Management believes the planned fleet expansion will significantly improve turnaround time and reduce congestion at terminals. The company says it has entered into strategic partnerships with other transport operators to help absorb excess passenger demand and minimise disruptions caused by the current shortage of buses.