In the bustling world of public transportation, a heated debate has emerged: should people who eat on buses be fined? This contentious issue has caught the attention of many commuters who are fed up with the sight – and smell – of fellow passengers munching away during their rides.

Recent reports have surfaced from Stomp, a popular platform for sharing local news and grievances, revealing that various riders are increasingly vocal about their disdain for those who eat on public transport. Stomper Selva recently shared an encounter on bus service 66, raising eyebrows with her observation: “During my routine trip, I noticed a fellow passenger munching on snacks. It made me question the regulations on eating and drinking while onboard.”

Stomper Rachel chimed in with her own eye-opening experience on bus service 856A, where she spotted a couple enjoying bread and beverages on the upper deck. “It seemed as if they were oblivious to the signs. Bus rules seem to mean nothing to them!” she exclaimed.

And then there’s Stomper Ira, who shared a photo of a man comfortably eating on bus service 12, sarcastically suggesting that “people like this should be fined!” This has sparked curiosity among the public: is there a rule against eating on the bus, and if so, what's the penalty?

According to Tower Transit, operators of bus services 66 and 856A, they “strongly discourage eating and drinking” to maintain a clean and comfortable environment for all passengers. Meanwhile, SBS Transit has a stricter standpoint, explicitly stating, “Do not smoke, eat, drink or litter in the bus.” However, a significant differentiation exists in enforcement: while consuming food on the MRT can cost riders a hefty $500 fine, risks on public buses are less dire. Eating on buses is prohibited by unwritten etiquette rather than strict law, meaning that while your fellow passengers might judge you, they cannot actually issue fines.

So why has this sparked such a passionate reaction? The answer might lie in common courtesy. Many passengers feel that maintaining cleanliness on public transport is a shared responsibility, and eating onboard can lead to messes that affect everyone’s experience.

What does this all mean for bus riders? While you can snack on your favorite treats without fear of a fine, you might want to consider the comfort of those sharing your travel space. Will we see more rules enforced in the future, or will this debate simmer down in the face of a growing urban population that craves convenience? One thing is certain; the next time you hop on a bus, think twice before reaching for that snack — you might just end up as the next viral sensation!