Checks on Mercedes-Benz public buses stepped up after fire incidents: Murali
Older buses are also being looked at more closely to see how fire risk can be minimised.
Singapore's public transport authorities have increased inspections on Mercedes-Benz Citaro buses following a series of fire incidents involving the model in the first half of 2026. Senior Minister of State for Transport Murali Pillai stated that the fires were caused by various failures and not a single issue. During a parliamentary session on August 5, Pillai responded to a question from Workers’ Party’s Dennis Tan about the cause of the fires and any additional safety measures for older buses.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) instructed bus operators to increase inspections on Mercedes-Benz buses, and no abnormalities were found according to the manufacturer. The incidents occurred on February 13, March 30, and May 5, all without injuries. Pillai explained that the mechanical parts in question were within the accepted lifespan under manufacturer guidelines, which included a loose propeller shaft and a failed turbocharger.
LTA is working with operators and the bus manufacturer to improve the inspection regime for older buses and assess if more preventive measures can be implemented to reduce the risk of fires.
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