The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said on Nov 16 that “significant progress” has been made, including a major milestone reached, on renewal works for the Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT), which began in 2018.
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Upgraded to use new CBTC signalling system; OCC currently undergoing renewal works
Image: SMRT/Facebook
The BPLRT has reached a major milestone in renewal works with the completion of switching over to a new signalling system for the line.
Previously, the BPLRT used a legacy fixed-block signalling system, which was commissioned since the line opened in November 1999.
The renewal works to progressively upgrade the BPLRT to the new Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system began in 2022.
Speaking to news outlet CNA, LTA said: “The signalling [system] upgrade has been completed and we have been on full CBTC operations since Nov 8, 2025.”
The new CBTC signalling system used on the BPLRT is similar to that used on MRT lines, allowing for better control of train speeds.
LTA said the signalling system migration involved “extensive and iterative testing across multiple operational scenarios, including system fault simulations to ensure optimal performance under all conditions”.
In addition, the BPLRT operations control centre (OCC) is currently undergoing renewal works for a “more ergonomic layout” to facilitate improved coordination across staff and would have more display screens for monitoring activities.
The BPLRT is currently operated from an interim location until the upgraded OCC is ready for migration.
All 19 new 3rd-gen BPLRT trains running, 13 existing 2nd-gen trains upgraded to be CBTC-compatible
Following the progressive decommissioning of the 1st-gen BPLRT trains, with the last train retiring on Oct 17, all 19 new 3rd-gen Alstom Innovia APM 300R (C801B) trains have entered passenger service, with the latest on Oct 24, according to SGTrains Spotters.
First launched in August 2024, the 19 new 3rd-gen C801B trains, purchased as part of fleet renewal for the BPLRT, come with new and improved features for commuters to enjoy smoother and more comfortable rides.
The C801B trains feature a condition-monitoring system that oversees the train’s health of various key systems, including doors, brakes, and air conditioning. LTA previously said the condition-monitoring system and sensor allow earlier detection and rectification of defects.
This system provides rail operator SMRT with a comprehensive “overview of the functionality and performance of the vehicle and tracks” and enables pre-emptive maintenance as required.
Additionally, all 13 existing 2nd-gen C801A trains have been upgraded to be compatible with the BPLRT’s new CBTC signalling system, and they have been put into passenger service.
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Related Links
Bukit Panjang LRT – SGTrains
Alstom Innovia APM 300R C801B – SGTrains
External Links
88% of Bukit Panjang LRT renewal works completed: LTA – CNA
🚝 Switching signals to a better journey — for a more reliable future! – SMRT/Facebook
Images: SGTrains, SMRT/Facebook.
This article first appeared on SGTrains.