MRT to get new rails, finally
PHOTO from DOTC
Finally, new rails for the Metro Rail Transit (MRT-3) have arrived, according to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).
The DOTC said 7,296 lineal meters of brand-new steel rails were delivered to the agency last week.
DOTC said the new rails would be used to replace the line’s worn-out segments to ensure “safer and smoother rides” for thousands of its daily commuters.
The agency said MRT-3 management would schedule the installation of the new rails during non-operating hours to avoid disruptions in its train operations.
The DOTC and MRT-3 earlier conducted “critical rail replacement” after broken rails stopped the line’s rail service.
Contracts have been awarded to six maintenance providers to maintain and rehabilitate various components of the system.
MRT-3 has drawn sharp criticism in recent months due to the technical glitches and long queues at is trains stations.
The DOTC said improvements on MRT-3 service was on track with the acquisition of 48 new train cars, with the first ones set to arrive in August. Also, the new tap-and-go ticketing system would be available later this year.
The agency added that the project to rehabilitate escalators and elevators at the train stations was underway. CB
PHOTO from DOTC
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