SINGAPORE, November 2025 — Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) and its rail operators are considering major enhancements to strengthen the reliability and efficiency of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. This follows a series of service disruptions that prompted an international panel of rail experts to review current practices and propose long-term solutions for maintaining the integrity of the network.

The five-member expert panel recommended that LTA and rail operators such as SMRT and SBS Transit introduce longer, planned shutdowns for selected MRT segments. These extended closures would allow critical maintenance, renewal, and upgrading works to be carried out more safely and effectively, reducing the need for repeated short overnight maintenance windows that limit the scope of work.

In addition to longer closures, the panel highlighted the importance of developing a comprehensive condition-monitoring system to support predictive maintenance. This includes real-time assessments of rail assets, early detection of wear or faults, and timely interventions before issues escalate. The panel also emphasized the need for upskilling the maintenance workforce and modernizing operational processes to support a more advanced maintenance regime.

These recommendations mark a strategic shift toward a more robust and forward-looking maintenance philosophy prioritizing long-term reliability over short-term service availability. By conducting extensive works during planned shutdowns, operators can minimise future disruptions, enhance passenger experience, and maintain smoother day-to-day operations.

Although Singapore’s MRT system already achieves high reliability by global standards, the panel stressed that continuous improvement is essential in the face of growing ridership and natural wear of aging infrastructure. With members bringing diverse expertise from France, China, Taiwan, and Japan, the panel offered a global perspective on strengthening Singapore’s rail asset management and operational resilience.

As Singapore continues to expand and upgrade its public transport network, these recommendations represent a proactive commitment to sustaining a world-class MRT system. Through extended maintenance windows, predictive technologies, and ongoing workforce development, the nation aims to stay ahead of emerging challenges and reinforce its position as a leader in reliable and efficient urban rail transit in Asia.

Source: The Straits Times