Overloading of buses remains a huge problem for many commuters, especially those travelling to the rural areas, as a limited number of buses has resulted in more than the required number of people in buses.

The maximum number of passengers a bus can carry is 34, however, this is never the case.

Aleipata residents Tina, 44, and Salone, 45, said there were not enough buses going to their areas.

The two women said there were times when bus drivers were unable to do anything about the overcrowding, as everyone wanted to get home.

“Aleipata is far away and going by taxi is expensive. It is almost $150 to travel from the town area to Aleipata Village,” they said.

“It gets more crowded on special days and public holidays.”

Another commuter, Saunoa Latina, 53, said overloaded buses posed a threat to the safety of the travelling public.

“I normally avoid loaded buses when they're full. But I have witnessed buses overloaded with passengers. In times like some youth drink and sometimes cause trouble while the bus is full. This is why I would rather wait for the next less crowded bus as it is safer," she said.

There have been issues with buses overtaking and racing while being overloaded.

Bus driver Lilo Poni, 34, believes that every driver should be responsible and avoid overloading.

“My daily routine is always checking the bus engine and other parts before departing from home, so I will not encounter any problems. Therefore, providing safe transport for the public, my bus parts are always changed or replaced regularly, which is why I never have problems with my transportation services,” he said.

Another bus driver, Petelo Tauese, 34, said the safety of the travelling public should always be the priority.

“The buses that are used for transport are expected to be well-equipped and working properly. I recommend that all bus drivers should always have a plan. If the brakes aren't working, use hand brakes to slow down or stop the bus in case of any unexpected accidents that may occur,” he said.

“My advice is for everyone to drive safely and be on their guard all the time, as sometimes accidents may occur because there are too many people driving without a license, especially youths."

Samoa’s wooden buses are getting old with some older than 50 years. The Land Transport Authority is no longer allowing the manufacture of the wooden shells.