Lifestyle

7 Facts About the MRT Signalling System We Should Know ‘Coz It’s Not Just Causing Disruptions Now

2017-11-17 , 4:01 pm

So, it would appear that our beloved MRT system has been in some trouble lately. From all the breakdowns and delays to the recent collision incident, we’ve been hearing a phrase pretty often.

The signalling system.

As such, let’s take a look at 7 facts about the signalling system (And hope we’ll finally understand what’s happening)

1. The purpose of the signalling system

Due to the fact that it’s difficult for trains to come to a stop when they’re moving, any head on collision could mean a major disaster. The signalling system, also known as railway signalling, is a system used to prevent collision of trains and help direct railway traffic.

The more you know, eh?

2. The earliest signalling system was manual!

A long time ago, rail cars were actually pulled by horses! (I’m glad horses don’t have to pull the MRT nowadays, sheesh) Hand signals were used to direct the “driver”, preventing collisions of any sorts. Oh well, that’s why it’s called “signalling”.

Heave, ho!

3. Foggy and hazy days

Realizing that hand signals are hard to make out during bad weather, people started to use lanterns and flags soon after.

(CAT 1! CAT 1! Heheh, see what I did there?)

4. Why is new signalling system being installed?

The old signalling system was actually installed in the 1980s. Given how fast technology has been improving these days, an upgrade was long overdue. (I’m pretty sure you’re not using a Nokia 3310 anymore, right?)

(Wait, what)

The new system is supposedly more efficient at keeping track of the distance between trains, making your journey safer and smoother.

5. So why did the collision on 15 Nov happen?

Apparently, there was a glitch in the software, signalling for the second train to move forward before the first train has departed the station. The first train was registered as a three-car train instead of a six-car train, resulting in the collision.

So it’s like one train signalling the other that he’s short…but actually he’s long. Ha.

6. So the signalling system is the one stopping the trains?

Well, yes! The signalling system ensures that all trains maintain a safe distance between each other. So please don’t blame the trains for stopping halfway lah, it’s for your own good!

…Please stay away from my post, Spider-Man.

7. New signalling system means shorter waiting time!

With a new and more efficient signalling system, commuters can look forward to more frequent trains. This is due to signals working more effectively. Home sweet home! (Although this means that we have longer waiting time now. Let’s hope it’s worth it!)

Okay, that’s about it!

I was originally told to make 10 facts, but I could only write so many things about the signalling system before you signal for me to get out (Or fall asleep).

Let’s just be thankful that efforts have been made to ensure that our MRT runs smoothly, and that the new signalling system will be fully functional soon! (Please leh, I also want to go home early one)

Since you’re here, why not watch a video about an NTU student who went all out to impress his crush, only to end up in…tragedy? Here, watch it and do remember to share it (and also subscribe to Goody Feed YouTube channel)!

This article was first published on goodyfeed.com