SINGAPORE’S Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced the completion of the first phase of the Singapore Rail Test Centre (SRTC) on November 2, with the opening of a 3km, 100km/h straight high-speed test track.

Previously known as the Integrated Train Testing Centre (ITTC), SRTC is the first train testing facility in southeast Asia. Located on a 50ha site, the SRTC will be equipped to conduct testing and commissioning of trains and other core rail systems for both new and existing metro lines.

Phase 1 of the SRTC programme has involved the construction of the high-speed test track, and the first two trains for Stage 6 of the Circle Line (CCL) are currently undergoing testing and commissioning at SRTC.

The second phase involves the construction of the two other looped test tracks, a 3km endurance track and a 2.8km performance and integration track, which features a maximum gradient of 3%. Each of the test tracks will be equipped with the signalling, telecommunications, control and 1.5kV dc overhead and 750V dc third rail electrification systems used across the Singapore metro network. Of the 16.9km of track at the facility, 2.7km is elevated.

Work is also underway on the three-storey administration building, operations control centre, and the maintenance and refurbishment workshops.

LTA says SRTC is on track for completion in 2025, a year later than planned due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and will play a pivotal role in its ongoing efforts to renew, upgrade and expand the Singapore metro network.

Upon completion, SRTC will serve as a comprehensive testing platform for multiple systems before they are deployed on metro lines, including signalling, communications, power and integrated supervisory control systems. The new centre will enable testing to be undertaken round the clock and free up limited engineering hours on operational lines for other work such as maintenance and systems renewal, ultimately strengthening the reliability of Singapore’s metro network.

SRTC has been designed to BCA’s Green Mark Platinum Certification, with energy-saving features incorporated into its equipment and operations. These include features such as LED lighting, solar panels and a hybrid cooling system. To promote sustainable mobility within the facility and to encourage walking and cycling, bicycle parking lots and sheltered linkways will also be provided.

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