Ensuring Continuous Operation in MRT Network Even with Service Disruptions along Some Parts

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.

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.