Singapore Train

The mass rapid transit (MRT) is the main transportation system for the majority of Singaporeans. Apart from providing reliable transportation services, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and public transport operators like SMRT also focus on improving the commuter experience at every touch point during the commuter journey. It was observed that commuters often get lost on Singapore’s MRT system because of challenging signage and directions. Now, LTA is working to upgrade all signs at MRT stations, starting with the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL). Read on further to know what’s changing exactly. New Signs at TEL Stations • A lot of commuters have said they get confused when they try to look for station entrances. The new signs at TEL MRT stations have larger fonts. The stations’ exits are indicated by numbers instead of letters. The new signs will also be installed in new MRT stations in the future. • Currently, the signs are being upgraded at MRT stations that have more than one line, such as Caldecott station. • The transit signage will now feature standardised graphics and a new typeface. • Signages will be more user-friendly so that way finding becomes less stressful for commuters. The Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) senior group director of rail, Mr Sim Wee Meng, said: "Our entrances used to be labelled A, B, C, D. And the feedback was that some people can’t read English, so we decided to use numbers instead since it’s a universal language.” Recently, six TEL stage 2 stations were handed over by LTA to SMRT Corporation. Before the opening of the TEL2 line, SMRT conducted its own tests to familiarise its staff with TEL operations. Commenting on the Thomson-East Coast line, SMRT CEO, Neo Kian Hong, said: “Besides reliability, commuters are also benefiting from an expanding network. The first stage of the TEL line started operations in January 2020. The second stage of Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL), commenced operations on August 28, 2021.” Conclusion With the change in signs and signage at MRT stations, people will now find it easy to find directions to entrances, exits, and other important points. Right now, only a few stations in the TEL line have got their signs upgraded. The LTA will roll out upgraded signs to other MRT stations in a strategic manner.

Public transit remains the most common form of transportation mode by Singaporeans.The key motivations for using the current mode of transport are its convenience, cost and time efficiency. Technological advancement will play an instrumental role in delivering an enhanced commuter experience, along with improved safety, efficiency and sustainability in the Singaporean public transport system in the years to come. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and public transport operators, including SMRT Corporation and SBS Transit, are working together to build the future of commute that is future-ready, advanced, and integrated. What LTA and Operators Are Doing To Improve the Transport Infrastructure 1. As envisioned in the Land Transport Master Plan 2040 or LTMP 2040, LTA and operators are creating ‘20-minute towns and a 45-minute city’. Under this plan, LTA aims to create a greener and more sustainable transport ecosystem where transportation is easily accessible and supports healthy lives. 2. In 2012, LTA embarked on a massive multi-year rail renewal plan with SMRT Corporation to enhance systems, tracks and trains on our two oldest lines – the North-South and East-West Lines (NSEWL). Most of the renewal works are complete now. So far, more than 900,000 man-hours have been invested in this massive renewal programme by LTA, NSEWL’s train operator SMRT, and various contractors. 3. LTA is renewing NSEWL’s six core systems including concrete sleepers, third rail, communications-based train control (CBTC) signalling system, power supply system, track circuit system, and old trains. 4. SMRT sustained high levels of rail reliability performance exceeding the 1 million Mean Kilometres Before Failure (MKBF) mark. Commuters are experiencing the benefits of an improved and more reliable rail system. 5. In February 2020, the first phase of the new Downtown Line simulation facility is expected to make further inroads in testing and simulation. 6. LTA created a committee consisting of SBS Transit, SMRT and ST Engineering. The aim is to synergise their knowledge and expertise for railway maintenance, for cost-effective development of engineering capabilities for rail OM. 7. In April 2020, a $639.5 million contract was awarded for the design and construction of the Integrated Train Testing Centre (ITTC). 8. The first phase of the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) started operations on 31 January 2020. It is operated by SMRT and servicing Woodlands North, Woodlands and Woodlands South stations. The second phase of TEL will start operations on August 28, 2021. LTA handed over six stations of TEL2 to SMRT in April 2021. 9. LTA and mass rapid transit operators are working on upcoming rail expansion projects. For instance, the Circle Line will soon be a complete loop with the opening of three new CCL6 stations – Keppel, Cantonment and Prince Edward Road. Punggol Coast Station has been added to the North-East Line Extension. 10. LTA also awarded contracts to big companies for the design and construction of the Jurong Region Line (JRL). 11. Johor Bahru – Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link will link Singapore and Malaysia. The project will be managed by ajoint venture agreement between Singapore’s SMRT RTS Pte. Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SMRT Corporation Limited, and Malaysia’s Prasarana RTS Operations Sdn. Bhd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Prasarana Malaysia Berhad. Commenting on the RTS project, SMRT Chairman, Seah Moon Ming, said: “We are participating in the Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link project, a new rail link across the world’s busiest border, crossing the Johor-Singapore Causeway. The transformational benefits of such a link spans the economy, society, culture, and geography. When completed, it will provide seamless connectivity for people across two sides of the Causeway. We look forward to the commencement of this service in 2026.” 12. Under the Smart Nation initiative, LTA is launching Smart Urban Mobility in which it will work with partners to bring digital technologies to enhance the comfort, convenience and reliability of the public transport systems. Conclusion The transport of tomorrow is dynamic. LTA is reimagining how the future of commute will look with new technologies, rail renewals, autonomous vehicles, smart systems, smart urban mobility, and much more. LTA and operators like SMRT are working together to create a convenient, sustainable, and connected transport ecosystem in Singapore.

Singapore’s public transport network comes at the top when it comesto affordability, transport efficiency and safety. A recent survey by the Singaporean government revealed that the majority of residents take public transportation systems rather than driving their own vehicles to work and school. Changing Commuting Trends in Singapore The government conducts General Household Survey once every ten years. It reveals the commuting trends among Singaporeans based on their accommodation, educational level, religion, and areas where they live. Almost six out of 10 Singaporeans take mass rapid transit (MRT) and public buses to work and school. The survey shows that 58.7 percent of people aged 15 years and older took the MRT lines or buses, or a combination of both. The percentage has increased from 50.7 percent a decade ago. And only 21.9 percent of residents took their vehicles to work last year. The proportion of people who travelled using only taxi or private-hire cars increased from 1.3 percent to 3 percent over the same period. Why people are taking more public transportation than their own vehicles MRT or light rail transit (LRT) with a transfer to or from a public bus is now the dominant mode of transport in Singapore. This is because the government and transport operators including SMRT Corporation and SBS Transit are working together to expand the country's rail network. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has a vision of building a reliable, people-centred land transport system by 2030. To fulfil this vision, LTA and SMRT are working together to expand rail system, improve rail reliability and build more accessible commuter infrastructure along the North-South and East-West Lines. The infrastructure, rail lines, and power systems have been upgraded in the NSEWL lines by SMRT and LTA. The Bucket Panjang Light Rail has also been renewed and upgraded for a better commuter experience. The Jurong Region Line is being constructed to improve connectivity in the western part of Singapore. The Circle Line 6 (CCL6) extension will connect the Central Business District, Marina Bay and the Harbour Front area. The Cross Island Line (CRL), the eighth MRT line which is the longest fully underground line, will connect major transport hubs including Jurong Lake District, Punggol Digital District and Changi region. Recently, the construction of Thomson-East Coast Line Stage 2 (TEL2) has been completed and LTA transferred six stations to rail operator SMRT. “With a strong foundation in our core businesses, we can look forward to greater growth in a sunrise industry made up of an expanding rail network in Singapore, and increasing mobility needs in a growing region. We will remain united and focused on our mission of Moving People, Enhancing Lives,” said Mr Neo Kian Hong, Group Chief Executive Officer of SMRT. Commenting on the expansion of rail networks, LTA said: “As a regulator, we work closely with public transport operators to ensure that commuters benefit from safe, reliable and comfortable train rides. We will make more timely investments in capacity expansion, replacement and upgrading of the assets.” Conclusion There have been significant enhancements to the public transport infrastructure in recent years. The expansion and renewal of the MRT network have enhanced rail reliability. Rail operators like SMRT and SBS Transitare focusing on providing reliable and well-maintained rail services. In the next decade, the percentage of people using public transportation will increase and Singapore will become a car-lite country in the world.

Singapore has Asia's most modern and convenient rapid transit systems. All MRT stations and lines are equipped with the latest technologies and amenities. Every station has at least four General Ticketing Machines (GTMs), a Passenger Service Centre, plasma displays, escalators and lifts, accessibility features, restrooms, payphones, and more. The Land Transport Authority of Singapore has allocated operating concessions for MRT stations to the profit-based corporations SMRT Corporation and SBS Transit. MRT transport operators conduct their business in a socially and environmentally responsible way, balancing the interests of commuters, the community, employees, and business partners. Recently, transport operator SMRT announced that it is turning its transport nodes into care centres for serving people in need. SMRT is converting a total of 17 train stations and five bus interchanges into dementia go-to points. People who have dementia experience memory problems, mood changes, and behavioural changes. Commuters and people in the community can come to these dementia go-to points to learn more about dementia and dementia-related services. 17 MRT stations that will be converted into care centres include Jurong, Yishun, Simei, Novena, Kent Ridge, Aljunied, Bugis, Kembangan, Lakeside, Lavender, Paya Lebar, Redhill, Queenstown, Ang Mo Kio, Buona Vista, Bishan, and Canberra. The five bus interchanges to be converted into care centres are Bukit Panjang Integrated Transport Hub, Yishun Integrated Transport Hub, Choa Chu Kang Bus Interchange, Sembawang Bus Interchange, and Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange. SMRT is working with Agency for Integrated Care (AIC), Alzheimer’s Disease Association, and the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped to make facilities more conducive for people with dementia. The company’s staff is undergoing special training so that they can provide help to commuters when they need it. SMRT CEO Neo Kian Hong, said the initiative was a key part of the operator's service ethos. “Running safe, reliable and commuter-centric train and bus journeys remains our top priority," he added. SMRT Chairman Seah Moon Ming said this would be done with "great respect, empathy, humility and care”. How SMRT Transport Operator is Serving the Community SMRT conducts familiarisation tours to bring different groups of beneficiaries to discuss how SMRT can add the inclusivity features at all stations. The operator has partnered with the People’s Association (PA) and LTA to engage community leaders and commuters for feedback to improve MRT stations. The operator is also improving commuter touch point by introducing mobile device charging points, priority queue system for the elderly, enhanced air circulation in stations, and music in stations. These services are available across 24 stations along North-South and East-West Lines (NSEWL), Circle Line (CCL), and Bukit Panjang Light Rail Transit (BPLRT) Line. These services will be rolled out in other stations in the coming years. Conclusion Singapore’s MRT stations and bus interchanges are the best and convenient points for commuters to seek help for dementia. By converting some MRT stations into care centres for people with dementia, SMRT is creating a positive impact on the communities.

The 20-year-old Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) is an automated guideway transit line in Bukit Panjang, Singapore. It is the only LRT line operated by SMRT Trains. Currently, it serves 13 stations in the neighbourhood of Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang. The renewal works at BPLRT started in 2018 and is expected to be completed in 2024. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) awarded a contract to renew the Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) system to Bombardier (Singapore) for $344,250,000. SMRT hasengaged Bombardier to provide long-term service support for the BPLRT system for the next 10 years, which includes technical and logistic support as well as spares supply to BPLRT. How the renewal work will increase reliability at BPLRT • New Signalling System: LTA, SMRT and system supplier Bombardier Transport installed the new signalling system in the BPLRT line to allow trains to run at shorter intervals, creating shorter waiting times. The new system will also increase LRT speed and location and condition-tracking. This will help commuters to enjoy smoother, safer and more reliable rides. • New Power Rails System: LTA and Bombardier have worked together to place robust power rail brackets to enhance system availability. The new power rails system will also enable real-time monitoring of rail alignment for better predictive maintenance. • New and improved Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs): 19 new LRVs featuring smart climate control systems and energy-efficient lights are being launched for the BPLRT line. The LRVs contain Alternating Current (AC) propulsion motor and an in-built system control management system for easier maintenance and real-time condition monitoring. • Pre-empt Fault Detection: Smart sensors and intelligent real-time condition monitoring system have been launched that will enable early fault detection. As the renewal works are going on, SMRT continues to support Bombardier and LTA in the smoother operation of the LRT for commuters. It is carrying out testing works during off-peak hours from 1 December 2019. SMRT has deployed additional SMRT station staff to provide assistance to commuters during the maintenance works. Commenting on the BPLRT renewal work, SMRT CEO Neo Kian Hong said, “We thank commuters for their patience as we work towards improving public transport journeys through the BPLRT renewal project.” Conclusion Commuters will be able to experience improved reliability and better travel experience on the BPLRT once the renewal works are completed. LTA, SMRT, and Bombardier are working together to minimise inconveniences for commuters as they strive to improve the BPLRT system.

Mass rapid transit (MRT) constitutes the bulk of the railway network in Singapore. Connecting the country from north to south and from east to west, MRT is the most heavily used public transportation system. It is the most affordable and faster way to zip around the city. The MRT network is managed and operated by two main transport service providers - SMRT Corporation and SBS Transit. SMRT Corporation is a multi-modal public transport operator in Singapore and manages five lines within the MRT network, including North-South, East-West, North-East, Downtown, and Circle Line. With the mission of ‘Moving People, Enhancing Lives, SMRT is making inclusive travel possible in the MRT network for Singaporeans. It believes in connecting people to places. It has made journeys not just accessible for everyone but also enjoyable. Here is what SMRT is doing to make MRT travel inclusive, accessible, and enjoyable for every type of commuter. 1. For Visually Impaired Commuters: SMRT allows visually impaired people to bring guide dogs in stations and onboard trains. It has placed tactile ground surface indicators throughout the stations and lift buttons with braille plates. 2. For Hearing Impaired Commuters: SMRT has placed plasma displays at platforms, flashing red door closing lights at train doors, and fluorescent displays in trains to provide multi-language messages. 3. For Commuters in Wheelchairs: SMRT-operated stations have wheelchair-accessible elevators, barrier-free entrances and gates, and wheelchair accessible train carriages. 4. Collaboration with social service agencies: The transport operator has partnered with Guide Dogs Singapore (GDS) to develop a service forum to share knowledge with its frontline staff, a new operating procedure and service scripts for staff, and bite-sized training materials to increase staff knowledge of the needs of the visually impaired. 5. Collaboration with the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC): To help elderlytravellers, especially those with dementia, SMRT has created Dementia Go-To Points with the help of AIC, where anyone can come and seek help from staff. 6. For Tech-Savvy Travellers: SMRT has introduced the SmartConnect multi-modal journey planner app wherein people can get real-time train and bus arrival timings and station information. e-Travel Chit helps people to obtain a proof-of-travel during the service disruption. SNAP-REP lets commuters report technical defects in the network through WhatsApp. 7. For People Who Require Special Care: Commuters who require special care can obtain Special Care stickers from SMRT stations. SMRT Chairman Seah Moon Ming said, “With these developments, we envision a more inclusive and safer travelling experience for all our commuters in a better-connected transport network.” Seah Moon Ming further added, “We will continue to invest in People and Technology. Continuous improvement efforts will also be deepened at the individual, system, and company levels. The philosophy of continuous improvement and transformation is key to our success.” Conclusion Convenient and special features in facilities, trains, and stations make commuting more convenient for people with disabilities, elderly people, and parents with young children. SMRT is working in the same way as the Land Transport Authority in creating an inclusive public transport system. By providing an accessible transportation system, transport operators and the government are trying to help people get around more independently.

The robot revolution has arrived. Every country is now relying on robotics technology that can mimic human abilities. Singapore is no exception. Being the most advanced country in the world with a world-class public transportation system, it is adopting automation technologies in many industries. SMRT Corporation, Singapore’s premier public transport operator, is the first company in the transportation industry to adopt robotic technology. In February 2021, it deployed 13 robot cleaners to enhance its cleaning efforts at all stations of the Circle Line mass rapid transit (MRT) line. Why SMRT deployed robot cleaners? The COVID-19 pandemic forced everyone around the world to heighten the cleaning activities in order to stay from the virus. Being the operator of five MRT lines in Singapore, SMRT Corp needs to look after the cleaning regime at all train station premises. SMRT deployed the robot cleaners to make it easier to clean all stations for Singaporeans and provide them with a cleaner environment to commute. These robot cleaners can clean two to three times faster than manual cleaning. They have scheduled cleaning times every day and managed by SMRT staff. The operator has trained its staff to operate these robot cleaners and troubleshoot the faults. Some of the staff members can be freed from the cleaning task and perform other important duties. Currently, the company has deployed nine robot cleaners from Avidbots, two from LionsBot, and two from Gaussian Robotics. It is planning to deploy more robot cleaners at the North-South and East-West metro stations. Mr Lam Sheau Kai, President, SMRT Trains, said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has led many to better appreciate the benefits of a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene in public areas. SMRT strives to meet that standard for our commuters by using a two-pronged strategy – leveraging on technology and automation, and to better utilise limited resource thereby optimising cost.” SMRT starts trials for robot cleaners on September 2020 SMRT started the trial session with robot cleaners in September 2020 after the nationwide circuit breaker was removed. SMRT chose Avidbots, LionsBot, and Gaussian Robotics because their robot cleaners are advanced and have operational and safety features, such as smart panels and ammonia sensors. SMRT CEO, Neo Kian Hong said: “We have set our core values to be Integrity, Service and Safety, and Excellence. SMRT Trains is committed to providing safe, reliable, and comfortable service for our commuters.” SMRT CEO further added: “It’s the right time to use automation in cleaning and hygiene management. Using robot cleaners is the best way to maintain a high standard of cleanliness while optimising cost and utilising resources in the right way.” Conclusion SMRT is always at the forefront when it comes to leveraging technology for enhancing rail infrastructure and improve computer experience. Besides deploying robot cleaners at the stations of the Circle Line, SMRT is also renewing rail assets like power cables, signalling system, metro trains, asset tracking system, and monitoring system.

SMRT Trains Ltd, the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) operator in Singapore, received the Global Operations Improvement Award from DuPont Sustainable Solutions (DSS) in January 2021. The MRT network forms the backbone of Singapore’s public transportation system and SMRT serves as the main operator of MRT lines. Let’s check out why SMRT received this prestigious award from DSS. SMRT staff developed innovative initiatives that helped to increase the safety and reliability of the MRT network. Here are the initiatives taken by SMRT Trains: • The staff at SMRT developed a laser track trolley for assessing railway tracks. It helped the operator to efficiently perform track assessments. • SMRT has introduced the Track Access Management System (TAMS) for optimising track booking and control process. Its team can easily perform maintenance activities during the limited engineering hours. The TAMS system is currently being used in the NSEWL, but it will be scaled up to utilised in the Central Circuit Line (CCL). • SMRT also developed Predictive Decision Support System (PDSS) for data processing and visualisation of asset design, maintenance and condition data. • The Mobile Operation and Maintenance System (MOMS) collects critical maintenance data for the various teams working so that they can get a holistic view of the maintenance work. Any team of SMRT Trains can provide online updates and do fault reporting on the go through digitalised processes. Commenting on the awards, Davide Vassallo, the CEO of DuPont Sustainable Solutions said: “These awards celebrate the achievements of companies that have developed innovative approaches to protecting their people and improving their operations. We congratulate all winners on their outstanding performance.” Other award and accolades received by SMRT: • The Workplace Safety and Health Innovation Awards 2019 - Gold Award for Speed Tester for Train Traction Control Unit Blower (Rolling Stock) from Singapore Logistics Association and Workplace Safety and Health Council. • Most Innovative Solution - Land Transport Excellence Awards 2019 from the Land Transport Authority. • The Most Reliable Line 2019: East-West Line (EWL) - MOT Challenge Shield from the Ministry of Transport, Singapore. • The Safe Rail Line of the Year - Certificate of Excellence from the Land Transport Authority for North-South Line. • The Best Land Transport Operations & Maintenance Initiatives - Merit Winner from the Land Transport Authority. Commenting on the innovative technologies developed by SMRT and how it helped the company grow, SMRT CEO, Neo Kian Hong, said: “SMRT Engineering, our newest Business Group developed to grow our rail engineering expertise, leverages digitalisation and technology to transform the Company and continually upgrade the skills of our workforce.” Neo Kian Hong further added: “Rail travel is the backbone of the Singapore public transport system. SMRT will continue to play our part in its growth and performance by building competencies and a culture of service excellence.” SMRT Chairman, Seah Moon Ming, said: “We will innovate and develop new capabilities to grow the Company. We will continue to invest in People and Technology. Kaizen and continuous improvement efforts will also be deepened at the individual, system, and company levels. The philosophy of continuous improvement and transformation is key to our success.” Conclusion The innovative technologies launched by SMRT Trains have helped to improve the safety, reliability, efficiency, and quality of the MRT network. DuPont Sustainable Solutions recognised the contributions by SMRT by awarding the company with the Global Operations Improvement Award this year. SMRT has been able to set a benchmark for excellence in the public transportation sector through its initiatives.