Upgrade works on the Light Rail Transit Line 1’s signal system means it needs to temporarily suspend operations on certain dates, Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) said on Monday November 22).
Metro Manila’s original light rail system will be closed on November 28, January 23, and January 30 to “complete the necessary works for the upgrade of its existing signaling system,” including test and trial runs.
According to the LRMC, the train line’s signaling system will be upgraded to the new Alstom Signaling System, which will be crucial to “accommodate the commercial use of 4th Generation train sets on the existing system.”
It is also taking delivery of 18 fourth generation train sets until 2022.
“We look forward to the many exciting developments lined up for LRT 1 in 2022,” Enrico R. Benipayo, the COO of LRMC, said. “The migration to the new signaling system underscores LRMC’s commitment in modernizing the LRT 1 and delivering better service to our customers. We would like to request the understanding of our passengers for this temporary inconvenience and would like to assure them that this will be beneficial in the long-run.”
The LRMC also offered updates to the Cavite Extension of the LRT 1, which is scheduled to be completed four years after the delivery of right-of-way. The 11.7-kilometer Cavite extension will connect into the existing system immediately south of the Baclaran Station and run south to Niyog, Cavite.
The entire Cavite Extension will consist of elevated guideways throughout the majority of the alignment, except for the guideway section at Zapote, which will be located at grade.
The new stations will be accessible to and from nearby community facilities, such as shops, schools, stadium and park, and will be located to suit passenger-flow routes from residential areas.
Pedestrian access to all new stations will be direct, safe and easy. Details, such as lighting to distinguish access points, pedestrian-cross striping and curb cuts for handicapped access, will be provided.
