Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Transport
a. what is the target temperature set for MRT train cars and station platforms;
b. how is this temperature monitored and controlled while the trains are running;
c. in the past six months, how many feedback reports have all the train operators and LTA received regarding excessively warm train cars or platforms; and
d. which MRT line received the most of such feedback.
Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:
1. Rail operators set the temperature for Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) trains and underground station platforms at around 25°C, to provide comfort for commuters while reducing the environmental impact of air conditioning. I think Members would agree that both objectives are important.
2. Train cars and underground stations are equipped with temperature sensors and thermostats that continuously monitor and maintain the temperature in our trains and stations.
3. Commuters may experience temperature fluctuations during their journeys, such as when warm air enters the trains when the train doors are opened at station platforms, or due to direct sunlight when the trains are running above ground.
4. In the first six months of 2024, feedback on the temperatures in trains or station platforms made up about 10% of the total feedback received by the operators. Most of the feedback pertain to the North-South and East-West Lines, because the other MRT lines are fully underground.
5. We are progressively replacing the trains from the North-South and East-West Lines with new trains, which will be completed by 2026. The new trains will come with better air-conditioning and air circulation within the train cabins.
6. The air-conditioning systems for underground train stations along the North-South and East-West Lines are also being upgraded and the upgrading will be completed by end 2025.
7. The Land Transport Authority will also improve air circulation at the train stations by installing more large ceiling fans and floor mounted fans at both new and existing stations. These fans are an environmentally-friendly way to improve air circulation and enhance comfort for commuters.
