SINGAPORE, Sept 19 — The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and train operators SMRT and SBS Transit will set up a rail reliability task force to tackle recent service disruptions.

CNA reported that the group — chaired by LTA chief executive Ng Lang — will include the chief executives of both operators and technical specialists. 

It will review recent incidents, carry out audits of critical systems, and recommend improvements to maintenance, operations and staff training, 

The task force will also study ways to speed up service recovery during breakdowns, such as reducing detrainments, and consider bringing forward renewal works on the North East Line power system and signalling upgrades for the North East and Circle lines.

Its findings will be reported regularly to Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow, with final recommendations due by year-end.

The government has earmarked an additional S$1 billion (RM3.3 billion) over five years to strengthen rail systems and upgrade skills.

The National Transport Workers’ Union said it supports the initiative, while SMRT stressed recent disruptions were unrelated incidents rather than systemic faults.