DOTC awards maintenance contract for MRT-3 elevators, escalators

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has awarded a maintenance contract for the escalators and elevators of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3).

In a recent statement, the DOTC said that the P8.17 million deal was awarded to International Elevator & Equipment Inc. or IEEI.

The last of seven maintenance contracts for the MRT-3, it specifically involves the upkeep of 34 escalators and 32 elevators over the next six months.

“The train system’s riders, especially those with special concerns such as senior citizens, pregnant women and persons with disability, can expect a more convenient commuting experience,” the DOTC said in the statement.

The IEEI will be obligated to maintain the Mitsubishi-brand conveyance facilities as the brand’s exclusive distributor of elevators and escalators.

Meanwhile, for longer-term improvement efforts, contracts for the rehabilitation of the 34 escalators and the replacement of the 32 elevators are already being procured.

As for the 12 Schindler-brand escalators, a maintenance contract was no longer procured as a six-month rehabilitation contract was awarded to Jardine Schindler instead.

Earlier this month, the DOTC awarded a six-month contract to MRAIL Inc., a subsidiary of the country’s largest power distributor, Manila Electric Co., for the railway line’s power supply and overhead catenary systems.

“These undertakings to enhance maintenance works and to restore facilities are part of the DOTC’s thrust to provide the public with safe, convenient and reliable railway systems and to address the widespread backlog in MRT-3 improvements spanning the past 11 years,” the DOTC said.

Five other contracts were earlier awarded to different companies, according to the department.