Plans to fix the problematic Bukit Panjang LRT 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,
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 said that it would be
sourcing for new trains, power rail, signalling system and various
other critical components.
Plans to fix the glitch-ridden system, which has been
acting up since it first opened 18 years ago, were first revealed
last October.
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
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.
ST