DOTC starts upgrade of MRT signal system

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) is set to start the P53.37 million upgrade of the signalling system of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3), a move expected to minimize the train system’s glitches.

The seven-month contract awarded to Bombardier Transportation Signal, Ltd. will involve replacement of the existing local control system called MAN 900 with the more contemporary EBI Screen 900, a software with the same functionality as MAN 900, but enables the use of modern personal computers and fiber optic technology.

The signalling system maintains safe distances between trains and controls their speed.

Issues with the signalling system’s components may result in less operating trains and slower travel.

Apart from modernizing the software components, the upgrade will also ensure the availability of spare parts needed for the uninterrupted and efficient operation of the train system.

Within the first month of the contract, Bombardier will provide the required hardware upgrades and software licenses.

The firm will, likewise, install, test, and commission support of the new system; carry out the migration of existing data and functions and train MRT-3 personnel on proper operation and maintenance.

Bombardier holds exclusive proprietary rights to supply new components, as it designed, developed, and implemented the entire MRT-3 signalling system when it was constructed.

 “This upgrade of an obsolete signalling system, which should have been done by the private sector owner years ago, is crucial in minimizing operational disruptions. This will improve reliability and efficiency of the rail system for the benefit of our passengers,” DOTC Secretary Joseph Abaya said.

The conditions of the MRT-3 covering North Avenue station in Quezon City until Taft Avenue station in Pasay City, have worsened over the years with the train system breaking down and leaving several commuters stranded in stations.

Aside from the upgrade of the signalling system, other improvements are being undertaken in the MRT-3.

Beginning Saturday, the MRT-3 will use the new beep cards or tap-and-go ticketing system to shorten the queuing time for passengers.

The beep cards are already being used in Lines 1 and 2 of the Light Rail Transit.

The ongoing refurbishment of 12 Schindler-brand escalators of MRT-3 meanwhile,  is expected to be completed before the year ends.

The rehabilitation of MRT-3 toilets is also being carried out and six facilities are already open for public use.

Over 7,000 linear meters’ worth of new rails are also set to be installed within the year to replace worn-out tracks in order to ensure safer and smoother rides.