Singapore metro system also is known as Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is a world-class rapid transit network. It is constantly being expanded, modified and made better. Serving more than 3 million commuters daily, Singapore’s MRT system is a thriving labyrinth that connects Singaporean households to metro stations within 10-minute walking distance. Here are 7 things that general commuters don’t know about the MRT system.
1. There Isn’t One, but Two MRT Operators
The various MRT lines in Singapore are run by different private operators: SMRT Trains and SBS Transit. The government has appointed two operators is to foster competition. When completed and become full operational, the new MRT lines Jurong Region Line and Cross Island Line will be managed and operated by TBC.
2. Fresh Trains’ at Some MRT Stations
You may find it to be a magical moment for you if you get to board an empty train during peak hours at a station. At certain times before and during peak hours, some trains are launched directly from the depots located adjacent to some MRT stations. You can get to board “fresh” trains atAng Mo Kio and Bishan(near Bishan depot), Clementi (near Ulu Pandan depot), Jurong East (near Ulu Pandan depot), Simei (near Changi depot), Tanah Merah (near Changi depot), and Tuas Link (near Tuas depot).
3. New Trains on the NSEWL MRT Lines
106 new MRT trains will enter passenger service from 2022 to 2026. 53 per cent of the NSEWL (North-South and East-West Lines) trains will be brand new when these trains replace 1st and 2nd generation trains on these lines.
4. Train Numbers Are Useful
Have you ever noticed numbers written at the ends of the metro cars? These are unique train carriage registration numbers. You can make use of them if you have lost something valuable on the trains and want to retrieve back your items.This number could even be used to report any fault to the train operator. SMRT’s SNAP-REP (Short for Snap and Report) is a technical defect reporting channel that allows commuters to report any technical defect if they come across while travelling within the SMRT network.
5. NSEWL Lines Use Automated Train Operation
Earlier, the NSEWL lines used semi-automatic trains. With the new signalling system placed by SMRT, trains on the North-South Line are now fully automatic. The train captains are not required to manually open or close the doors. All these are done automatically with the new signalling system. SMRT Chairman Seah Moon Ming commented on why the company is working on the new signalling system. He said, “Improving train reliability remains SMRT’s top priority. The new signalling system which will add capacity and system reliability so that commuters can look forward to smoother and more comfortable rides.”
6. Most MRT Stations and Trains Are Accessible
The government and operators have worked together to make MRT journeys accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities. There are wheelchair accessible elevators and train carriages as well as wide fare gates for commuters using wheelchairs. Hearing impaired commuters can use plasma displays at stations for train arrivals and fluorescent displays to see messages. Visually impaired commuters can bring guide dogs with them to trains and stations and use braille plates and tactile ground surface indicators while commuting.
7. Give Your Feedback on Train Designs
You can give valuable feedback on what type of train design you want the government to bring in the future. Future train models are exhibited at the Transport Authority (LTA) Gallery located at Hampshire Road. You can visit the gallery, check the train designs, and give your feedback. It might be implemented for all future trains.
Conclusion
The MRT system is the most energy-efficient mode of transport in Singapore. It is sustainable, affordable, and the fastest way to reach from one location to another. If you travel daily using the MRT network, you must know the aforementioned facts about Singapore’s mass rapid transit lines.
About the Author
Hyun Park
Hyun is a transport enthusiast with a keen interest in the railway, buses, and public transport operations. He loves to share his knowledge and understanding of the public transportation system with people through his articles. He also loves to travel and cook in his free time.
Singapore’s public buses forma significant part of public transport in the country, with over 4.0 million rides taken per day on average as of 2018.
Currently, the buses are run by SMRT Buses, SBS Transit, Tower Transit, and Go-Ahead Singapore.
After mass rapid transit, public buses offer affordable and convenient transport to people all around the island.
Recently, LTA announced new Passenger Information Display System (PIDS) panels will be installed at 310 bus stops from September 2021 to September 2023.Features of the New PIDS PanelsThe new PIDS panels come with improved design, vibrant graphics and bigger fonts.
The panels will also display destinations and points of interest along their travel route, including MRT stations and hospitals.Messages – The new panels will display travel advisories such as rail disruptions, planned maintenance works on the MRT network, and information on changes to bus services.As a starting point, new PIDS panels have already been installed at bus stops along Bedok Reservoir Road, Jalan Eunos, Paya Lebar Road, Serangoon Road and Sims Avenue.Apart from the new PIDS systems, public bus operators are working with LTA to deploy and implement sustainability options.
SMRT Buses deployed three-door buses to allow passengers to enter and exit buses quicker.
Werner, part of the US-based Fenway Sports Group that owns Liverpool, believes the winning mentality created by Klopp since he took charge in 2015 will keep the team hungry for more success next season.
Let us know about the UPSC Chairman and other related details in our article.
We have added the information on the Present or Current & List of UPSC Chairman & President.
Learn more about UPSC Chairman in our article.
Shashank Manohar gets retirement as the first independent chairman of the International Cricket Council.
It is the end of the influence of BCCI in the world body.
In 2015 November, Shashank Manohar took the responsibility as chairman of ICC
Ricardo Miller is the Chief Executive Officer of the Miller Building International, who founded the company in 1950 and is currently Chairman and CEO.
Having achieved some key strategic targets, this seems like the right moment to transition to Executive Chairman.
Ricardo Miller is the natural and right choice to be the company’s Chief Executive.
