But man, was I wrong.
Nowadays I see aunties in purple loitering along the tracks, adding to the congestion on the platforms.
Even though I learnt in science that matter cannot be compressed, we still see them trying to alter rules of physical science by getting commuters to do the impossible.
Perhaps it would interesting to see if we can start a research project to make mankind denser in Singapore so that we can pack more people per carriage.
I also wonder if the people who decided the trains to be bought actually saw how the manufacturers came up with the maximum capacity of the trains? Was it based on volumetric or surface area calculations?
To get the max capacity based on volume would be:
1. Take internal measurements of each carriage - length, breadth and height;
2. Multiply these 3 dimensions and you'll get the volume of the train;
3. Determine the average volume taken by a person (approx 1.6 * 0.5 * 0.5 m);
4. Divide the volume of the train with the volume of person and you'll get the total capacity
Hmm... Perhaps using the the surface area (standing area) of the train carriage would be better since no one can occupy the space on top of another person instead?
Anyway, it'll just be a matter of time that we'll reach the level of "commuter technology" that Japanese commuters have - the willingness and ability to be packed like sardines (without tomato or teriyaki sauce).
I hope I'd have retired by then.