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Service 299 & 21X: Improving Bus Connectivity in 2025

Singapore is rolling out 15 new bus services in 2025, including Service 299 and Service 21X, as part of a broader connectivity improvement drive launched last year.

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Daily.SG Newsroom
Archive · 7 Apr 2025
Service 299 & 21X: Improving Bus Connectivity in 2025
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KEY POINTS

  • ●11 new bus services have already launched since July 2024 under the Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme, covering areas like Sembawang, Woodlands, Punggol, and Tengah.
  • ●Service 299 will loop from Tampines North to Tampines South starting 27 April 2025; Service 21X is a limited-stop service between Whampoa and Novena launching 28 April 2025.
  • ●43 existing bus services have been enhanced with more capacity or expanded routes to serve commuters better.
  • ●15 additional new services are planned for 2025, with further enhancements to existing routes rolling out by June 2025.
  • ●The authority will monitor travel patterns and community feedback to keep adjusting services to meet commuter needs.

IN SIMPLE TERMS

The transport authority is adding new bus routes and improving existing ones across Singapore to make it easier for people to get around. Two examples are Service 299 in Tampines and Service 21X between Whampoa and Novena, both starting in late April 2025.

WHY IT MATTERS

More bus services mean better coverage across different estates and neighbourhoods in Singapore.
Limited-stop and direct services like Service 21X can reduce travel time for commuters on busy routes.
Improved connectivity helps residents without private transport access key destinations and public facilities more easily.
Ongoing monitoring and adjustments ensure the bus network stays responsive to how people actually travel.

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The Full Story
  1. LTA introduces Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme (BCEP).
  2. 11 new bus services launched since July 2024.
  3. 15 additional new services including service 299 & 21X planned for 2025.

Singapore’s public transport system is set for significant improvements with the introduction of new bus services and enhancements to existing routes.

Introduction to the Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme (BCEP)

In a press release by LTA, the Land Transport Authority announced the launch of the Bus Connectivity Enhancement Programme (BCEP) in July 2024.

The BCEP aims to improve connectivity to estates across Singapore.

This programme is part of ongoing efforts to enhance public transport services for commuters.

New Bus Services Introduced Under BCEP

Since the programme’s inception, 11 new bus services have been introduced.

These new services cover various areas in Singapore, including Sembawang, Canberra, Yishun, Woodlands, and Punggol.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the new services:

  • Service 861: Implemented on 15 September 2024, serving Sembawang, Canberra, and Yishun
  • Service 967: Implemented on 12 January 2025, serving Woodlands
  • Service 148: Implemented on 20 April 2025, serving Woodleigh and Potong Pasir
  • Service 673: Implemented on 14 October 2024, serving Punggol
  • Service 674: Implemented on 25 November 2024, serving Tengah

Enhancements to Existing Services

In addition to new services, the BCEP has also focused on improving existing bus routes.

43 existing services have been enhanced with additional capacity or expanded coverage.

Some of the enhanced services include routes 33, 34, 36, 43, 50, and 62, among others.

Planned Enhancements for 2025

The LTA has ambitious plans for further improvements in 2025.

15 additional new services are scheduled for launch this year.

These new services will continue to expand the bus network and improve connectivity across Singapore.

One such service is the new Service 299, which will loop from Tampines North Bus Interchange to Tampines South, starting from 27 April 2025.

Image Source LTA - Service 299
Image Source: LTA – Service 299

Another notable addition is Service 21X, a limited-stop service between Whampoa and Novena, set to begin operations on 28 April 2025.

Image Source LTA - Service 21X
Image Source: LTA – Service 21X

Service Enhancements and Amendments

The LTA is not only introducing new services but also enhancing existing ones to better meet commuter needs.

Some of the planned enhancements include:

  • Additional trips on City Direct Service 671 between Sengkang and the Central Business District (CBD)
  • Amendment of Service 292 to ply Tampines Street 11 in both directions
  • Introduction of new supplementary Service 230M for residents staying at Kim Keat Avenue to access Toa Payoh Bus Interchange and MRT station

These improvements are expected to be rolled out by June 2025.

Future Plans and Monitoring

The LTA remains committed to continually improving public transport services in Singapore.

They will closely monitor travel patterns and feedback from the community to make necessary adjustments to bus services.

This approach ensures that the public transport system remains responsive to commuter needs and evolving travel patterns.

The BCEP is a significant step towards enhancing Singapore’s bus connectivity and improving the overall public transport experience for residents and visitors alike.

Do you think these bus service enhancements will significantly improve your daily commute in Singapore?

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