Upgrades to Signalling System and Testing of New Vehicles Will Affect LRT Timings
SINGAPORE – Starting from Nov 14, 2024, Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) services will end one hour earlier at 10.30pm from Thursdays to Sundays until Oct 31, 2025. This change is part of efforts to facilitate the upgrading of the BPLRT’s signalling system and the testing of new light-rail vehicles.
Train services will continue to operate as usual on public holidays. The adjustments come after recent service disruptions—a five-hour delay on Oct 22 between Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang LRT stations due to a faulty second-generation train, and a suspension of services on Sept 5 due to a signalling fault.
The BPLRT, which has faced reliability issues since its launch 25 years ago, is undergoing a multi-year asset renewal programme to improve performance. The upgrades include replacing the signalling system, power rails, and enhancing the operations control centre. Canadian engineering firm Bombardier has been awarded a $344 million contract to overhaul the system.
As part of the renewal, new third-generation vehicles have already started operations since Aug 1, 2024, and second-generation vehicles are being retrofitted. The testing of these new and upgraded vehicles will require extended service hours beyond normal operations. LTA and SMRT stated that full integration of the new system with trackside equipment can only take place after hours, which will extend the required engineering time.
The upgrade work is expected to be completed by 2026, and further adjustments to the schedule may be necessary as testing progresses.
