Plans to fix the problematic Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) system once and for all have been set in motion, but commuters are likely to have to wait a few more years for a new and more reliable ride. In his Committee of Supply speech on Wednesday (8th March), Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan said that they have started the process for its renewal.
"We target to call a tender this year for a complete replacement of its ageing components and an upgrade of its systems," he added. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said that it would be sourcing for new trains, power rail, signalling system and various other critical components.
Mr. Lee Ling Wee, Managing Director of operator SMRT Trains, said in a blog that a few options were being considered. One, to deploy self-powered, autonomous guided vehicles on the existing viaduct. Two, build a new LRT system with significant design enhancements.
Mr. Lee then noted the current system is more suitable as an airport shuttle plying short distances on flat ground however currently BPLRT trains have to tackle gradients.
The third option was to renew the existing Bombardier system with a more updated signalling system where trains could be tracked more accurately as they operated at higher frequencies. If all three options are not feasible, there was another alternative - to scrap the system and revert to buses. The government has ruled out this alternative, saying it would lead to heavy congestion on the roads.
The first option has also been ruled out. Asked for more details on the renewal process of the BPLRT, the LTA would only say that it will be 'a complex project'. "We also need to minimise any inconvenience to commuters as these works will have to be done on a live and running system," said an LTA spokesman. An announcement will be made at a later date, it added.
