MANILA, Philippines–The government wants to speed up the awarding of multiple contracts for Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT 3) operations after reports surfaced that less than half of its trains were operating.
Transportation Secretary Joseph Abaya confirmed Monday that only between eight and 10 trains were operating against the regular 18 to 20. The shortfall was due to technical issues such as faulty air conditioning and malfunctioning doors.
With fewer trains, the interval between the arrival of the trains became longer, resulting in long lines forming at every MRT station.
“I got a report that there were 10 trains operating. That is the reason why we immediately want to award the multidisciplinary mode,” Abaya told reporters, referring to a plan to separate the maintenance of MRT 3 facilities into several contracts.
These major components are rolling stocks, power supply, tracks, communications, building facilities and equipment, and conveyance. The automated fare collection system was also mentioned but the tap-and-go ticketing system would be operated by a consortium between Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and Ayala Corp.
Abaya said the department was hoping to award the contracts by June.
“The purpose of this multidisciplinary approach is so they can plan effectively,” he told reporters, adding that the contracts would be renewed every six months.
The MRT 3 is the busiest of three elevated railway lines in Metro Manila, serving over one million commuters daily.