Regardless of who operates our rail network, what matters is the operator's quality and mindset ("'Let Govt manage public transport'"; Oct 30).

When the system fails and the regulators impose heavy fines on the operators, the people who suffer the most are the passengers.

In order to maintain a reliable and dependable rail system, operators must embrace and invest in smart technologies and innovation.

Having a pool of quality engineers is valuable, but there are constraints and practical challenges in overseeing a vast and complex system.

Hence, smart technologies, such as robotic vehicles, are essential in assisting engineers in testing and detecting weaknesses and irregularities in the rail system.

With smart systems, engineers can pinpoint malfunctions instantaneously for prompt action, and execute speedy preventive measures.

Investing in smart solutions increases productivity, mitigates the cost of operations and, most of all, can help achieve a near-zero rate of failures.

This will ensure a strong and confident customer relationship, which will translate into positive benefits for operators.

Ivan Ho Seng Cheng