Siemens Mobility to deliver CBTC system for Malaysia to Singapore line

Credit: Siemens Mobility

RTS Operations granted the contract to Siemens Mobility, to establish not only a CBTC signalling system but also a Platform Screen Door System on the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit (RTS) Link. The 4km system connecting Johor Bahru, Malaysia and Woodlands, Singapore will be a joint venture conducted by RTS Operations, Singapore rail operator, SMRT, and Malaysian public transport firm, Prasarana. Once completed, the RTS Link is estimated to be able to transport 10,000 passengers an hour, in each direction. The new systems will help ease rail line congestion at existing border entry points, it also aims to improve cross-border connectivity, as well as bolstering economic activity in the region. The line will also be equipped with GoA Four, the highest grade of mechanisation that allows for trains to be automatically controlled and operated.

Andre Rodenbeck, CEO of Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to provide our state-of-the-art signalling technology for this important regional project that will deliver a vital transportation link for the almost 300,000 people who cross the Malaysia to Singapore border daily for work.

“The RTS Link will be the first ever cross border system to be equipped with CBTC technology, which will allow it to operate with superior availability, reliability and passenger experience. It further underscores our leading position in the field for delivering automated signalling systems.”

During this project, Siemens Mobility will utilise its Trainguard MT solution to install CBTC technology on 4km of rail line, along with one station and control center (OCC) on each side of the border. Additionally, platform screen doors will be installed at both stations, as well as a depot that will be established on the Malaysian side. This depot will be able to accommodate eight four-car trainsets. Trainguard MT is Siemens Mobility’s high-performance CBTC system, which allows operators to maximize their network capacity and throughput. The radio-based technology provides real-time data on vehicle positions and speed conditions, as well as allowing system operators to safely increase the volume of vehicles on a rail line.

This project extends the already well-established relationship between Siemens Mobility and the countries Singapore and Malaysia. The pre-existing relationship was built from Siemens Mobility involvement with providing the signalling for multiple mass transit projects in Singapore. Amidst the various projects is the recent contract award for the installation of an automatic train control signalling system on the Jurong Region Line.