Ensuring Continuous Operation in MRT Network Even with Service Disruptions along Some Parts
Ministry of TransportSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns contingency measures and infrastructure maintenance for the MRT network as raised by Miss Cheng Li Hui. Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan explained that unaffected line segments continue operating via bi-directional or loop services during disruptions, supplemented by bus bridging for affected areas. He clarified that abnormality detection relies on condition monitoring equipment and manual patrols rather than drivers, while pump systems are installed throughout the underground network to manage seepages. Regarding aging infrastructure, the Minister detailed a multi-year renewal program for the North-South and East-West Lines to replace key components and trains by 2024. These efforts aim to address wear-and-tear and equipment obsolescence to ensure the long-term reliability and safety of the rail network.
Transcript
31 Miss Cheng Li Hui asked the Minister for Transport (a) what are the contingency measures to ensure that the rest of an MRT line's network still operates when there are service disruptions at other parts of the line; (b) whether the driverless nature of underground lines hamper the detection of abnormalities along tracks, such as the presence of debris and arcing and what are the measures to circumvent this limitation; (c) whether pump systems are installed along the underground network where flooding is generally thought to be less likely; and (d) what age-reliability issues are our trains and stations facing.
The Minister for Transport (Mr Khaw Boon Wan): Mr Speaker, during a service disruption, train services on unaffected parts of the line will continue to operate if it is safe to do so. For example, if a section of one track is down, the operator may run bi-directional services on the unaffected track. If train services are disrupted on a section of both tracks, the operator may turn trains around to run loop services. Buses may also be used to ferry commuters across stations with no service.
We do not rely primarily on train drivers to detect abnormalities along the tracks. Condition monitoring equipment is deployed to monitor the status of key systems, such as trackside power and signalling. Staff also patrol the tunnels regularly to conduct visual checks.
Pump systems are installed in underground tunnels and stations to drain away water from tunnel washing and seepages. I am sure we will talk a lot more about this shortly.
The North-South and East-West Lines are our oldest MRT lines and they have started to exhibit age-reliability issues, such as wear-and-tear and equipment obsolescence. We have, therefore, embarked on a multi-year programme to replace all the key components, including the power supply, the signalling system, track circuits and trains. Some stations are also being refurbished. The lines will be fully renewed by 2024.
We will also be carrying out extensive renewal works on the Bukit Panjang LRT. In my subsequent Statement, I will mention the need, certainly my desire, our desire, of speeding up this renewal programme because, until they are renewed, the lines always have to face this risk of some sort of disruptions.
12.29 pm
Mr Speaker: Order. End of Question Time. Since the Minister of Transport has built up a good momentum, the Ministerial Statement next. Minister for Transport.
[Pursuant to Standing Order No 22(3), Written Answers to Question Nos 32 and 33 on the Order Paper are reproduced in the Appendix.]