Disruptions on the Bukit Panjang LRT reportedly attributed to a fresh power system, claims SMRT.
The Bukit Panjang Light Rail Transit (LRT) power renewal project, managed by SMRT, is set to be completed by the end of 2026 [1][2][3]. The project, which includes the installation of a Power SCADA system, aims to enhance the safety and reliability of the traction power supply for the Bukit Panjang LRT line.
The Power SCADA system, a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system, is designed to monitor and control power distribution across the LRT line, providing real-time supervision of the electrical power network to detect faults early, controlling and managing power circuits to prevent power failures, and integrating with safety mechanisms such as the Emergency Trip System (ETS) to automatically isolate faults and minimize service disruptions [2][3].
However, recent incidents in July 2025 revealed faults in the newly installed Power SCADA system that caused network-wide traction power trips and service disruptions [1][2][3]. To address these issues, the LTA project team is conducting a full design review with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to strengthen network stability before full commissioning [1][2].
On July 20, a fault in the Power SCADA system affected the ETS, triggering a network-wide traction power trip. To restore power, the ETS was temporarily bypassed [1]. The incident led to train services being unavailable across all stations on the Bukit Panjang LRT line, causing four trains to be stalled between stations [1].
SMRT's CEO, Mr. Lam, expressed his gratitude to affected commuters for their patience and understanding during the disruption and reiterated that SMRT remains fully committed to keeping the Bukit Panjang LRT running safely while renewal works continue [1].
The Bukit Panjang LRT network is an 8km line connecting residential estates within Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang to the North-South and Downtown Lines [4]. The Power SCADA system is part of the Land Transport Authority's (LTA) ongoing power renewal project for the LRT line.
As works progress, the LTA will continue to monitor the system closely to ensure its stability and safety. The ultimate goal of the power renewal project, including the Power SCADA system, is to deliver a more stable and safer power supply for the Bukit Panjang LRT line.
The Power SCADA system, a component of the Land Transport Authority's (LTA) ongoing power renewal project for the Bukit Panjang LRT line, is crucial in controlling and managing the electrical power network in the public-transit sector, enhancing transportation safety and reliability within the industry and finance sector. The recent incidents highlighted the need for a thorough design review to prevent such happenings in the future, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operations in public-transit transportation.
