Thales Awarded Contract to Modernize Critical MRT Depots in Singapore

©Thales

(IN BRIEF) Thales has secured a contract with Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) to modernize two key depots serving the North-South and East-West Lines (NSEWL) of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network. These are vital routes for over 1.4 million daily commuters. Thales will use advanced technology to upgrade the depots without affecting their 24/7 operations. This project strengthens Thales’ decade-long partnership with LTA and SMRT and aims to enhance safety and reliability in Singapore’s rail system.

(PRESS RELEASE) PARIS, 22-Dec-2023 — /EuropaWire/ —  Thales (EPA: HO), a French multinational company active in the aerospace, defence, transportation and security markets, has entered into a significant contract with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in Singapore to embark on the digital transformation of two pivotal depots serving the North-South and East-West Lines (NSEWL).

The NSEWL, Singapore’s most heavily frequented rail lines within the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network, span over 100 kilometers, encompassing 62 stations, and catering to a staggering 1.4 million daily commuters*. Having dutifully served passengers for over three decades, these lines are an integral part of Singapore’s transportation landscape.

Thales’ state-of-the-art interlocking solution, the latest in its series of advanced innovations, will be deployed to modernize these essential depots. The Bishan Depot, commissioned in 1986 (37 years ago), and the Ulu Pandan Depot, established in 1988 (35 years ago), are not only the oldest but also the largest depots within the network.

A critical aspect of this project is to ensure that all works are executed with utmost precision and safety, without causing disruptions to the round-the-clock operations at these depots, where trains keep moving 24/7. Thales, in close collaboration with LTA and SMRT, is committed to maintaining a seamless commuting experience for the millions of passengers who rely on these vital lines for their daily journeys.

In 2012, Thales and SMRT initiated a game-changing re-signalling project for Singapore’s railway backbone, encompassing the North-South and East-West Lines (NSEWL). This transformation involved the transition from legacy fixed block technology to a cutting-edge Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system. Over the past decade, Thales and SMRT have established a robust partnership rooted in local expertise and innovative cooperation. The new contract not only underscores the trust LTA and SMRT place in Thales but also reaffirms the commitment to fortify the long-term partnership.

Alcino De Sousa, Vice-President and Managing Director, Urban Rail Signalling at Thales, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Singapore’s NSEWL is one of the oldest and most complex CBTC modernized lines in the world. Thales is thrilled to continue being part of the digitalisation of 2 depots. By leveraging on cutting-edge SelTrac™ technologies and our extensive expertise, we aim to enhance safety and reliability for improved rail journeys across the globe.”

Yu Feng, Ground Transportation Systems Director in Singapore at Thales, added, “We are proud to continue working with LTA and SMRT. We will continue with our ‘One Team approach’ to collaboratively deliver the project safely, without any impact to passenger commuting on the NSEWL.”

The North-South Line, Singapore’s maiden MRT line, commenced operations in November 1987, linking Yio Chu Kang and Toa Payoh. The East-West Line, which originated as part of the North-South Line in December 1987, connected City Hall and Outram stations. Over the years, the East-West Line extended its reach to include Boon Lay station in the west, with the Changi Airport MRT extension joining the network in February 2002. In June 2017, the Tuas West Extension was introduced, incorporating four new stations to enhance accessibility and connectivity in the area. Today, the East-West Line, spanning 57 kilometers with a mix of underground and above-ground stations, stands as the longest operational train line in Singapore. The MRT network currently encompasses six MRT lines, boasting more than 140 stations.

* SMRT website Information Kit (smrt.com.sg)

Media contact:

Thales, Media Relations Ground Transportation
+33 (0)6 25 15 72 93
chrystelle.dugimont@thalesgroup.com

SOURCE: Thales