Train services along the East-West Line (EWL) between Boon Lay and Queenstown were disrupted on the morning of September 25, 2024, due to a power fault. Commuters heading to work and school were informed by SMRT that there would be no train service between these stations for the rest of the day. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) later confirmed the disruption and provided details on the cause and measures taken to assist affected passengers.
Cause of disruption
An LTA spokesperson explained that around 9am, a first-generation Kawasaki Heavy Industries train developed a fault while travelling eastbound near Clementi station. Passengers were detrained at Clementi, and the faulty train was being withdrawn to Ulu Pandan depot when a power trip occurred at 9:25am. This power trip caused trains between Queenstown and Boon Lay stations to stall. Preliminary assessments indicated that the damaged train caused further damage to the tracks, including the running rails and the third rail supplying power.
Bridging buses, train shuttle service
To mitigate the inconvenience, free regular buses and bridging buses between affected stations were deployed from 9:28am and 9:46am respectively. From 5pm, SMRT initiated separate shuttle train services between Buona Vista and Queenstown MRT stations, and between Jurong East and Boon Lay stations, with trains running at 10-minute intervals.
LTA has also activated additional support from bus operators to enhance the bridging bus service during the evening peak period. Commuters can use regular bus services at the bus stops of affected stations. Updates will be provided on SMRT and LTA’s social media platforms, as well as the MyTransport app.
LTA has informed the Singapore Examination and Assessment Board (SEAB) to make arrangements for students taking exams. As for the resumption of normal train services, more time may be needed for repair works. SMRT and LTA will assess during “engineering hours” tonight whether passenger service can resume on September 26.
Future implications
The disruption highlights the challenges of maintaining ageing train infrastructure. The incident involving the first-generation Kawasaki Heavy Industries train underscores the need for ongoing maintenance and potential upgrades to prevent future occurrences. Commuters are advised to stay updated through official channels for the latest information on service resumption and alternative travel arrangements.
