P5 boy allegedly told to alight bus as EZ-Link card short of $0.30, dad asks for more compassion
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A Primary 5 student was allegedly told to alight a bus due to insufficient balance on his EZ-Link card instead of being allowed to continue his journey.
Stomper Sanchez said he was left "deeply disappointed" by the incident involving his 11-year-old son on Oct 21, at around 7am.
The boy had boarded bus service 23 at Broadway Hotel, but was purportedly made to alight at the next stop at Farrer Park.
"My son was in full school uniform, clearly indicating his destination at Bendemeer Primary School," Sanchez told Stomp.
"His EZ-Link card had $0.26, while the fare was $0.56, a difference of $0.30. He had mistakenly left his wallet at home and had no alternative means of payment.
"The driver asked him to alight at the next bus stop, even though it was still within the vicinity of his intended stop."
It is unclear why the boy was asked to alight at the next stop instead of where he had boarded, or if the bus was already moving when he tapped his card.
The Stomper explained: "My son said he didn't understand what the driver said to him. But why did he need to alight at the next stop? This is my concern.
"I understand that drivers must adhere to regulations, but I had hoped for a more compassionate approach, especially given the circumstances. A little consideration could have made a significant difference to my son's morning.
"I hope this matter will be taken into consideration to prevent similar situations in the future."
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