Singapore’s esteemed North-South and East-West MRT (NSEWL) lines have culminated a multi-year upgrade, bringing to fruition an extensive rail network improvement scheme initiated in 2012. This momentous undertaking aimed to refurbish and enhance the NSEWL’s six critical systems: sleepers, third rail, signalling system, track circuits, power supply, and the train fleet.
Phase by Phase Upgradation
While half of the systems, namely the sleepers, third rail, and signalling system, were rejuvenated before 2020, the focus of the subsequent years was centred on completing the remaining three. Among the new features is a state-of-the-art “condition monitoring feature,” as mentioned by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), designed to proactively detect and rectify potential issues, drastically reducing service disruptions.
Enhancing the Track Circuit System
LTA emphasized that the new track circuit system, which began its replacement works in 2018, would notably boost rail reliability. Integral to this upgrade is the ability to identify “broken rails requiring repairs.” Moreover, this system seamlessly integrates with the Communications-Based Train Control signalling system, introduced in 2018. Together, they monitor and signal the exact position of every train on the tracks, empowering operators to efficiently manage faults, thereby mitigating commuter inconveniences.
Powering Up with New Power Supply System
Having begun in 2018, the renewal of the NSEWL’s power supply system stands as a testament to innovation. This new system, equipped with real-time monitoring capabilities, ensures prompt fault detection. Illustrating the enormity of this effort, Acting Minister Chee Hong Tat remarked that the renewal included “1,300km of power cables, which is nearly six times Singapore’s coastline.”
A New Era of Train Fleets
Beginning in 2018, LTA commissioned the production of 66 trains to substitute the first-generation of NSEWL trains. This was followed by an order of 40 additional trains in 2020. These contemporary trains, laced with high-tech sensors, allow for swift fault detection. Presently, 26 have been received, with 7 servicing passengers and the others in testing phases. The deployment of the remaining trains is anticipated to be between now and 2026.
Achieving Rail Excellence
The culmination of these refurbishment efforts signifies a dramatic shift in the MRT’s operational reliability. Drawing from Mr. Chee’s insights, back in 2012, the NSEWL’s reliability measure, known as mean kilometres between failure (MKBF), stood at approximately 65,000 train-kilometres. By 2019, this metric soared to a commendable 1 million MKBF, reflecting a consistently high level of dependability.
The Path Forward
While today marks a celebratory milestone, the rail network’s expansion implies that maintenance and renewal will remain an ongoing commitment. As the NSEWL evolves, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the commute for Singaporeans will be paramount.
In essence, this monumental project underscores Singapore’s unwavering commitment to fostering an efficient, reliable, and cutting-edge transport system.
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