SMRT completes securing claws

Beleaguered train operator SMRT has revealed that it has completed securing the claws along all underground tracks on both North-South and East-West Lines.

The claws support, known as the "third rail", provides power to the trains. Following massive train breakdowns about two weeks ago, SMRT carried out checks and found that there were dislodged claws causing the disruptions.

SMRT said in a media statement on Wednesday that the "tried and tested solution" of using cable ties to secure the claws follows recommendation by the original manufacturer.

This series of train disruptions were said to be the most serious encountered by SMRT in its 24-year history. Despite calls for its chief executive Saw Phaik Hwa to step down, she had said she will not walk away from the problems and will do all she can to resolve the situation.

SMRT also said that it has brought in international experts to inspect the system.

However, trains between Bishan and Marina Bay stations on the North-South Line and between Bugis and Tiong Bahru stations on the East-West Line will still travel at a slower speed of 40 kilometres per hour.

The extra two minutes is similar to the longer travel time on rainy days when trains move slower at aboveground stations.