Bukit Panjang LRT returns to full service on December 30

In Singapore, the Bukit Panjang Light Rail Transit (BPLRT) is about to resume its full dual-loop service on December 30, following a significant renewal program. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) informed the public on December 16 that this enhanced service will take effect at the start of passenger operations on the scheduled date. A single-loop service was previously implemented on December 1, 2019, as part of the efforts to facilitate infrastructure upgrades since 2018. The initial phase of these upgrades involved limited weekend operations and weekday peak-hour services for residents traveling between Choa Chu Kang and Bukit Panjang. Response from the community highlighted how crucial the rail service was, particularly for commuters like Amiruddin Asyraaf, who relied on it for their daily commute. He stated that alternative transport options, such as car or bus, take significantly longer due to traffic conditions, making the LRT essential for many residents. Despite significant improvements expected with the resumption of full service, the BPLRT will still enforce early closure at 10:30 PM from Thursdays through Sundays until October 31, 2025. Early closures aim to allow for ongoing upgrading of the signalling system and the testing of newly retrofitted light rail vehicles, which is critical for enhancing the overall reliability of the service. The multi-year asset-renewal program thus seeks to resolve long-standing reliability issues that have plagued BPLRT. The LTA’s enhancement initiatives include establishing an upgraded operations control centre and replacing outdated power rails that supply electricity to the trains. With a target completion date in 2026, continuous monitoring will ensure that operations improve in both reliability and passenger experience, allowing the LTA to better serve a community that heavily depends on public transit.