MINIBUS drivers working around the clock say they are hooked on coffee, smoking and speed to stay alert. Chung, 29, has been a public light bus driver for six years, logging shifts of up to 24 hours without a break. 'I only had a nap in the vehicle when I was queuing up for the next ride at the terminus,' he said. 'Speed is another solution. When we stick to a regular speed of 50 or 60 km/h, it makes us feel tired. 'We have to drive faster from time to time to remain alert.' Lee, 32, blamed minibus rental rates and fuel prices for the long working hours. 'The daily rental of a public light bus is about $700 to $800 a day, added to soaring fuel prices. The net income per shift, say 12 hours, is only $300 to $500 depending on the number of passengers. 'It means no profit at all if we are caught by the police and issued with penalty tickets. So the more rides we can do, the more we earn,' Lee said.
