Bukit Panjang LRT will not run on 2 Sundays for system tests; more new 3rd-gen C801B trains running

The Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) will have two full-day closures on Sundays in August and September 2025 for further rigorous and comprehensive testing of the new signalling system to ensure proper integration with new and upgraded LRT trains.

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The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and rail operator SMRT said in a joint statement on Jul 30 that there will be no train services on the BPLRT on two Sundays, Aug 31 and Sep 21.

This is part of ongoing renewal works since 2022 to progressively upgrade the existing BPLRT signalling system to a new Communications-based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system, similar to that used on all Singapore MRT lines.

Commuters can enjoy smoother and more reliable rides with the new CBTC signalling system, said LTA and SMRT, as it allows “better control of train speeds”.

In the following phase of systems integration testing, the BPLRT closure on two Sundays will provide a longer period for continuous testing of the new signalling system by simulating actual operating conditions.

LTA and SMRT said this would also ensure that the various BPLRT systems can operate safely and reliably when they are rolled out for commuter service.

During the Sunday full-day closures on Aug 31 and Sep 21, shuttle bus service – LRT Shuttle B – will be operating in the direction of BPLRT Service B, from Choa Chu Kang to Bukit Panjang stations, via Petir station, at a frequency of 5 to 15 minutes.

LRT Shuttle B will use the same fare structure as the BPLRT service, and commuters may also take existing bus services – 67, 171, 920, 922, 960, 963, 972, 972M, 973, 974, or 976 – to continue with their journeys.

The upgraded Operations Control Centre (OCC) and power rail replacement works are also ongoing and are slated to be completed by the end of 2026, with additional service adjustments required that year in the final phase of system renewal works.

The Sunday full-day closures are on top of the early closures at 10:30pm on the BPLRT every Thursday to Sunday, from November 2024 to October 2025.

Over 14 of 19 new 3rd-gen C801B trains in passenger service

The new 3rd-gen C801B trains for the Bukit Panjang LRT first entered passenger service in August 2024, and will replace all 19 existing 1st-gen C801 trains. (Image: LTA)

The renewal of the BPLRT fleet has made good and steady progress, said LTA and SMRT, with over 14 new 3rd-gen C801B trains deployed into passenger service.

In addition, 15 of 19 legacy 1st-gen C801 trains have retired, and 11 of 13 2nd-gen C801A trains have completed their upgrading works and have re-entered passenger service.

The first two C801B trains entered passenger service in August 2024, which were purchased to replace the existing C801 trains that have been running since the line opened in 1999.

LTA earlier said the new C801B trains have new and improved features for commuters to enjoy smoother and more comfortable rides.

These include new LCD monitors with “dynamic-coloured route displays”, which assist passengers in identifying the current station and tracking their route.

Brighter and energy-efficient LED saloon lights are also installed, with an upgraded air-conditioning system that has “enhanced cooling capabilities and even distribution of air throughout the vehicle.”

In addition, the C801B trains feature a condition-monitoring system that oversees the train’s health of various key systems, including doors, brakes, and air conditioning. Power rail sensors will also be installed for real-time monitoring as the train travels.

The condition-monitoring system and sensor allow earlier detection and rectification of defects, providing the operator with a comprehensive “overview of the functionality and performance of the vehicle and tracks” and enabling pre-emptive maintenance as required.

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External Links
Bukit Panjang LRT: Signalling System and Fleet Renewal Nears Completion, Station Lifts to be Upgraded – LTA
Bukit Panjang LRT: Signalling System and Fleet Renewal Nears Completion, Station Lifts to be Upgraded – SMRT

Images: Screengrab from LTA/YouTube, LTA.
This article first appeared on SGTrains.
Last updated on 29 Aug 2025.