Kuala Lumpur:Prasarana Malaysia Bhd (Prasarana) is intensifying efforts to enhance the reliability of its Light Rail Transit (LRT) services through constant maintenance, closer supplier collaboration, and the introduction of 26 new train sets for the Kelana Jaya Line.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, these initiatives are part of Prasarana's strategy to tackle technical challenges impacting train operations, improve service dependability, and enhance the passenger experience. Dr. Prodyut Dutt, the acting president and group chief executive officer, noted that the Kelana Jaya Line has faced increased reliability challenges this year. From January to August, the line recorded one incident per 749 kilometers traveled, compared to one incident per 1,066 kilometers during the same period last year, marking a 30 percent deterioration.

In contrast, the Ampang Line and Monorail showed performance improvements of 20 and 80 percent respectively. Dutt highlighted that it is crucial to prioritize the Kelana Jaya Line, which serves 290,000 passengers daily. He revealed that 90 percent of disruptions are due to rolling stock issues, with two-thirds caused by the automated Emergency Braking (EB) safety system. This system activates when tachometer sensors detect speed discrepancies, often due to cable wear and track vibrations.

The line's Linear Induction Motor (LIM) system, in use since 1998, is linked to these issues. Although replacing the LIM system is not feasible due to the extensive infrastructure changes required, Dutt mentioned that Prasarana is implementing interim measures to stabilize operations. This includes ordering 26 new train sets from CRRC Corporation Limited, with the first arrivals expected in March 2029.

While awaiting the new trains, Prasarana is conducting 24-hour maintenance operations and engineering interventions to ensure operational stability. Despite global supply chain challenges affecting component availability, Prasarana is working directly with suppliers to expedite orders. Dutt stated that cost is not an issue due to government support, but lead times for spare parts remain a concern.

Additionally, Prasarana is refining contingency measures to minimize passenger impact during disruptions and strengthening communication through direct WhatsApp alerts. The presence of station officers and Auxiliary Police is also being increased to manage passenger flow more effectively.