Improvement Works to Enhance Reliability of Bukit Panjang and Sengkang-Punggol L

1. Improvement Works to Enhance Reliability of Bukit Panjang and Sengkang-Punggol LRT Systems Singapore boasts an excellent modern rail network. Both mass rapid transit (MRT) and light rail transit (LRT) systems are used widely by commuters in Singapore. The LRT system is a series of localised automated guideway transit systems acting as feeder services to the MT network. There are three LRT lines in Singapore including Bukit Panjang LRT line, Sengkang LRT line, and Punggol LRT line. Currently, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the public transport operators have embarked on a series of renewal and improvement works to improve the rail reliability of the Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) and the Sengkang-Punggol LRT (SPLRT) systems. Here are some of the improvement works that will make BPLRT and SPLRT systems even more reliable: 1. New Power Supply for BPLRT LTA has replaced BPLRT’s power management system. The new end-to-end electrical distribution solution for the BPLRT has been specifically designed for large electrical distribution applications. The new power supply of BPLRT has an intake source at Junction 10 substation. 2. Renewal of the BPLRT Systems SMRT Corporation, a leading multi-modal transport operator, is carrying out the replacement and renewal of other major BPLRT systems. By 2024, the company will complete renewal works for BPLRT. SMRT has delivered two retrofitted vehicles to BPLRT’s depot in April 2021 and will deliver the remaining 11 retrofitted vehicles over time. Commenting on the various renewal works being carried out by SMRT for both MRT and LRT systems, SMRT CEO, Neo Kian Hong, said: “We have worked closely with the various stakeholders towards achieving operational sustainability. For the entire rail system to work well, we worked with LTA, other operators, and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to deal with renewals, new projects, and daily operations.” 3. Preventive Maintenance of SPLRT Systems LTA is carrying out asset renewals for the SPLRT system. It will change SPLRT’s power rail and power rail assemblies. Signalling switch machines and cables are being maintained as well. Progressive replacement of viaduct bearings has been completed. LTA completed the enhanced preventive maintenance works for crossheads that support the SPLRT viaducts. LTA’s Deputy Chief Executive for Infrastructure and Development Mr. Chua Chong Kheng said: “LTA is working closely with the rail operators to carry out extensive works to renew and upgrade our LRT systems and to improve system reliability. With the completion of these renewal works, commuters can expect more reliable journeys.” Increase in LRT Reliability BPLRT operator, SMRT achieved 100,000 Mean Kilometres Between Failure (MKBF) in 2019 for the Bukit Light Rail System. The SPLRT achieved 426,000 train-km and improved its reliability by about 70%in 2020over that of its performance in 2019. Conclusion A reliable rail network requires regular maintenance to improve the reliability of the rail transit system. Together with the Land Transport Authority (LTA), public transport operators including SMRT are renewing the BPLRT and SPLRT systems for better and smoother rides for commuters.