IT WAS not just the usual train ride for the more than 500 'commuters' who took part in an emergency evacuation exercise organised by SMRT yesterday morning.

Packed into a train at Pioneer MRT station, part of the soon-to-be-opened Boon Lay Extension, they experienced first-hand a simulated arson and bomb attack.

An SMRT staff member, holding a plastic bottle wrapped in newspaper, was planted in the middle of a carriage. As the train pulled out of the station towards Joo Koon station, he emptied the 'kerosene' on the floor, in simulation of an arson attack.

A 'bombing' followed in another carriage, causing a roar that tore through the train's speakers, and left three bloody 'casualties' on the floor. The lights went out and the air-conditioning was shut off.

SMRT staff had already pre-briefed the participants, made up of residents from Southwest Community Development Council and students from the Singapore Management University, on what to do in the event of an emergency.

The 'passengers' were also led by Singapore Civil Defence Force officers to emergency exits at the front and back end of the train. Both open up onto ramps that allow passengers to get off the train. From there, they could cross over onto the platform.

Many of the participants brought their kids along for the experience, while others came out of curiosity.