Power distribution system in renewal project may be linked to Bukit Panjang LRT disruption: SMRT
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The power trip could be linked to the Power Scada system, which plays a key role in monitoring and controlling power distribution across the LRT line.
PHOTOS: SMRT/FACEBOOK
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SINGAPORE – A system that monitors and controls power distribution may be linked to the power trip that caused service on the Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) system to be disrupted for almost three hours
In a post on train operator SMRT’s Facebook page on July 4, Mr Lam Sheau Kai, the president of SMRT Trains, said preliminary investigations found that the power trip could be linked to the Power Scada system.
The system plays a key role in monitoring and controlling power distribution across the LRT line, enhancing the safety and reliability of train operations, he added.
Mr Lam said the Power Scada system had developed a fault, which then affected the Emergency Trip System (ETS) and caused the traction power on the LRT line to be tripped.
The system is part of the BPLRT Power Renewal Project, which is targeted for completion by end-2026.
Other aspects of the project include the replacement of power rails and the first-generation trains, as well as the upgrading of the existing signalling system.
Mr Lam said the Land Transport Authority and SMRT are conducting an investigation to address the issue, which includes a comprehensive design review of the system to enhance network stability.
“We will continue to closely monitor the system as the renewal works progress,” he said.
“On behalf of the BPLRT renewal project team, we apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank commuters for their patience and understanding,” added Mr Lam.
On July 3, a power fault led to a disruption at all stations on the BPLRT line. Train services were stalled from about 8.50am and progressively resumed from 11.30am.
As a result of the power fault, five trains were stalled between stations, while seven trains were stationary at platforms, said Mr Lam. Commuters who were on trains stalled on the track were guided by SMRT employees to the nearest station, he added.
To allow the resumption of train services, Mr Lam said the ETS was bypassed, which reinstated traction power to the trains.
Additional staff were also deployed to man all stations till the end of the day as an added safety measure, he added.
