New information system on board SMRT
trains
The next time you miss an announcement on where the next stop is
on board a train, you can turn to a new visual information system
that will tell you just that.
The system developed by SMRT , will also indicate which side of
the train the door will open at the next station.
Transport Reporter Lin Jiamei with more.
The new system is made up of a route map with all the stations
marked, very much like what you already see on the trains.
However it has new features added to it - red and green lights
that will light up at the appropriate stations, indicating which
direction you are heading and what the next stop is.
Beside the panel, to be located above every door, is a separate
light, indicating which side of the train the door will open at the
next train station.
And if you are standing in the middle of the train car, look up
and you will find a flourescent display panel showing multi
language text of the audio announcements.
Here's what some commuters make of these added features.
"It has happened a few times where we were facing the wrong door
and all of a sudden you have to turn around and push your way
through but with this to help, you can plan in advance so that when
the light is flashing you know you are facing the wrong door if the
lights are red."
"Sometimes you are not sure whether you are alighting the right
station or not and you have to look out the window to check where
you are. So with this it is much better."
"At least we know which station we are at . So other than the PA
system this is an alternative. (what else do you hope to see?)
Maybe the estimated time where you will be arriving at the next
station. "
The new system, which costs some 120 000 dollars to install per
train, is already on trial on one train.
The system will be gradually rolled out for SMRT's 106 trains
over the next year and a half.
SMRT says it will not pass on these extra costs to
commuters.
Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer Yeo Meng Hin, on
whether it will consider adding more features on the panels, such
as the estimated time of arrival.
"That is something we can think about. We wanted to get the
information that is most critical out to the customers first . As
far as the time to station, it is something additional, we will
look at it. " --938Live
