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"More needs to be done" to improve reliability on Singapore's MRT: minister

Xinhua, August 6, 2015 Adjust font size:

Reliability on Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network has improved since 2011 but there is " much more needs to be done" to improve it, said the country's Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew on Thursday.

In a speech during a visit to the Gali Batu depot in Woodlands, Lui said while overall reliability of MRT has improved, large scale or prolonged disruptions still happen more frequently than what is acceptable, reported the Strait Times.

Lui said the government will focus on three areas to tackle the issue of rail reliability. The authorities will ensure that train operators have a rigorous maintenance regime. Problems such as leaks and worn down insulators, the causes of North-South and East- West lines (NSEWL) breakdown on July 7, can surely be prevented.

Lui pointed out that Land Transport Authority (LTA) has been working with operators to adopt a "predict and prevent" approach. LTA has embarked on a comprehensive audit of SMRT's maintenance regime for the NSEWL. SMRT has also started a trial in which maintenance check lists are digitized to minimize human error.

Lui said older rail lines are being upgraded, and new rail lines will help to improve the overall resilience of the network by providing alternative routes in the event of a disruption for commuters.

Singapore's two main MRT lines came to a complete halt simultaneously during the evening peak on July 7, resulting in large number of stranded passengers. The disruption last about three hours, which was possibly the worst public transport disruption Singapore has experienced. Endi