Bukit Panjang LRT disruptions in July both linked to newly installed power system: SMRT
Both incidents were linked to the newly installed Power Scada system, which is part of the ongoing LTA Power Renewal Project.
SINGAPORE - Following a nearly two-hour
disruption to Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) services on July 19 , transport operator SMRT said that it had concluded on-site investigations the same evening.
Its investigation revealed that the power fault 'shares a similar failure mode' to an
earlier three-hour long service disruption on July 3 , said Mr Lam Sheau Kai, the president of SMRT Trains, in a July 20 statement on SMRT's Facebook page.
All 13 BPLRT stations were affected during both service disruptions.
'Both incidents were linked to the newly installed Power Scada system, which is part of the ongoing LTA Power Renewal Project,' he said.
The Power Scada system plays a key role in monitoring and controlling power distribution across the LRT line, enhancing the safety and reliability of train operations. The BPLRT Power Renewal Project is targeted for completion by end-2026.
In both incidents, a fault in the system affected the Emergency Trip System (ETS), triggering a traction power trip across the entire network.
'The LTA project team is conducting a thorough investigation, including a full design review by the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) contractor to strengthen network stability and prevent further recurrence. A key focus is ensuring that the traction power supply remains stable, especially while the system is still being commissioned,' said Mr Lam.
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He added that SMRT would continue to monitor the system closely as works progress.
'We thank all affected commuters for their patience and understanding during the disruption. SMRT remains fully committed to keeping BPLRT services running safely while renewal works continue,' said Mr Lam.
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