More unified approach to rail operations could work better

The recent move by SMRT and SBS Transit to work together with ST Engineering on repair and maintenance is a good start. In fact, merging operations to have a single rail operator in talent-scarce Singapore makes sense.

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Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan's speech at an MOU signing ceremony between SMRT and SBS Transit on Monday last week revealed glimpses of where Singapore's rail industry might be heading.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was notable in that it paved the way for the two rail operators to formally work together with defence and engineering group ST Engineering on the repair and maintenance of Singapore's rail system.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 28, 2019, with the headline More unified approach to rail operations could work better. Subscribe