Train services on the Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) will end one hour earlier at 10.30pm every Thursday to Sunday, from 14 November 2024 till 31 October 2025 (except on public holidays, when train services will run as per normal).

This service adjustment is necessary to facilitate the upgrading of the BPLRT signalling system, as well as the testing of the new and retrofitted Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) on the BPLRT network.

Since 2022, works to upgrade the existing signalling system to a new Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system, similar to that used on MRT lines, have been carried out progressively. The new CBTC signalling system allows better control of train speeds, which will allow commuters to enjoy smoother and more reliable rides. Intensive testing to ensure full integration of the signalling system with the rest of the trackside equipment across the entire BPLRT network is required. This can only be carried out during engineering hours, and each period of testing exceeds the engineering hours available during a typical night. Testing also needs to be conducted with the upgraded and new LRVs as they progressively become available over the next year.

During the early closure period, commuters can take existing bus services serving Bukit Panjang and/or Choa Chu Kang to continue their journeys after 10.30pm. These include Services 67, 171, 920, 922, 960, 963, 972, 972M, 973, 974 and 976. LTA will monitor ridership and adjust service levels where required to meet commuter demand.

Update on overall BPLRT renewal works

The upgrading of the signalling system is part of a broader BPLRT renewal programme that aims to provide commuters with a more reliable and improved travel experience.

1. Aside from the signalling upgrading works, upgrades to the Operations Control Centre and power rail replacement activities are also ongoing to enhance system reliability.
2. The replacement of the first-generation BPLRT vehicles with 19 new vehicles is progressing well. Since 1 August 2024, four new LRVs have entered passenger service, with another currently undergoing testing. One additional new vehicle will arrive by end-2024, while the remaining 13 new vehicles will arrive progressively in 2025.
3. In parallel, the 13 second-generation vehicles in service today are being upgraded. Five second-generation vehicles have already been upgraded and are running in passenger service, with the sixth second-generation vehicle to complete its upgrading in early November 2024. The remaining seven second-generation vehicles will be progressively upgraded and tested over the coming year.
4. All new and upgraded BPLRT vehicles are expected to enter passenger service by end-2025.

Resumption of Dual Loop Services

The BPLRT renewal programme is progressing well. Full dual-loop services have resumed for all hours on weekends and public holidays since 28 September 2024. Further resumption of dual loop services on weekdays can be expected in coming months and updates will be provided when ready.

LTA is targeting to complete the full BPLRT renewal programme by the end of 2026, to deliver better travel experiences to our commuters. Additional extended engineering hours may be required as the BPLRT renewal works progress. We will continue to plan our works carefully to minimise the impact on commuters as far as possible, and will provide timely updates if service adjustments are needed.

We thank commuters and residents for their understanding and patience, as we continue to improve the BPLRT’s reliability.