SMRT trains still running at reduced speeds

But with most SMRT trains repaired the 40kph cap might be lifted soon, says Transport Minister.

The speed limit was imposed over critical segments of the network after two major breakdowns occurred last week. Slower train speeds have caused longer waits for SMRT passengers.

In a Facebook update, Minister Lui Tuck Yew assured SMRT riders that a gradual increase is being considered, given that 11 of the 13 damaged trains have been repaired.

SMRT schedules and train intervals are almost close to pre-breakdown levels, the Transport Minister said.

"I was at Sembawang, Yishun and Bishan stations this morning between 7.40am to 9.25am. Trains were running smoothly. The intervals between trains were largely satisfactory at about 2-3 minutes, except for a stretch between 8.15 to 8.30am at Yishun when trains came at about 4 minute intervals. Generally, most commuters could get onboard the first train,” he said.

“Since pulling the 13 damaged trains from operations, SMRT has worked hard to fix the damages. Beginning of service this morning, 11 of these 13 damaged trains have been repaired, and they were able to run a total of 108 trains. Hence, they are now able to operate the trains during peak hours at intervals very close to what it was before the two major incidents last week. The next thing is to look at when we can gradually increase the 40kph limit. We have run the trains at this reduced speed over critical segments of the network since Sunday. The engineers from LTA and SMRT have inspected the trains and third rail every night since,” he added.

“Many commuters have had to wait longer for trains to arrive. Your journeys have taken slightly longer. I know this has caused you some inconvenience. I hope to improve on this soon. I will be meeting the LTA and SMRT teams later this morning to get another update on their inspections and their assessments and recommendations,” he said further.