SMRT implements measures to lower risk of breakdown

The Business Times reported that SMRT is putting in place immediate measures that it says will 'mitigate the risk of a recurrence of the disruption' that brought services on the North-South East-West lines to a halt this week.

In a statement on Friday evening, the train operator said that these measures include rescheduling longer-term track upgrade and renewal programmes when necessary. This is so that priority for track access during the 'limited maintenance hours at night' can be given to immediate remedial actions that can 'safeguard the system against a recurrence'.

SMRT also plans to continue its testing and investigations over the weekend.

It said that it was working with external specialists to 'review the design robustness of the power network' and to find ways to 'further segment it in order to avoid a similar network-wide power failure'. A number of retired SMRT staff with experience in network power issues have also been brought onboard to assist in the investigations.

"SMRT is working closely with (the Land Transport Authority) and welcomes the appointment of an independent consultant that specialises in transit power systems. We are also in close consultation with our international technical advisory panel," it said. "However, until the root cause can be conclusively determined, SMRT is taking all possible precautionary and preventive measures to safeguard the system in terms of safety and service reliability."