LRT-1 extension passes first test

MANILA, Philippines — The Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) has marked another milestone in extending the Light Rail Transit Line 1, completing a test run on the new tracks of the LRT-1’s Cavite Extension.

LRMC yesterday conducted a train run on the first of three phases of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension, keeping the project on schedule to open by the end of 2024.

LRMC’s contractor, Alstom, led the initial trial to assess the compatibility and interface of the railway’s components.

In particular, LRMC checked the operability of the overhead catenary system, or the wires above the rail line providing electricity to the train sets. The concessionaire also evaluated how smooth the train wheels ran on the new tracks.

LRMC chose the Gen eration 2 trains for the test run as it is the widest among all models, making it the most viable option to check compatibility with cableways and stations.

MRT, LRT hours extended

Meanwhile, to accommodate the expected influx of commuters during the Christmas rush, three rail lines extended their operating hours.

In a statement issued Tuesday night, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista ordered the last trips of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and the LRT-1 and LRT-2 to be set about an hour later from Dec. 20 to 23.

The MRT-3’s last train journey from North Avenue station will be at 10:30 p.m. and from Taft Avenue station at 11:05 p.m.

The last train from the LRT-1’s Baclaran station will leave at 10:45 p.m. and from Fernando Poe Jr. at 11 p.m.

At the LRT-2, the train from Antipolo station will make its final trip at 10 p.m. and from Recto station at 10:30 p.m.