LRT Kelana Jaya Line to get 26 new trains; first sets to arrive in 2029, fully operational by 2031 – Rapid Rail

Rapid Rail says that the LRT Kelana Jaya Line is set to gain 26 new trains by 2031 as part of a long-term effort to improve reliability on the ageing rail network. According to its LRT CEO Nor Azmi Mohd Yusof, the first of the new trains are scheduled to arrive in 2029, with the replacement programme expected to be completed by the end of 2030.

He said that by 2031, the line would be operating the new trains. In the meantime, the rail operator said it is taking immediate steps to keep the existing fleet running safely and reliably. This, he said, will be accomplished by a condition-based maintenance approach, allowing components to be replaced proactively based on their condition rather than strictly following manufacturer timelines, as the New Straits Times reports.

“If the manual says a component should be replaced after six months or a year, we may replace it earlier if inspections show signs of wear, especially given the age of the trains,” he said in response to questions over recurring service disruptions on the KJ Line, including an incident on May 12 that involved a melted battery cable.

Nor Azmi said the incident was the first of its kind and had prompted a detailed inspection of all trains, with no similar warning signs detected so far. “We take this seriously. The ageing factor of the trains is something we consider, and we have carried out comprehensive checks on all trains to ensure they are safe for operations,” he said.

He added that not all disruptions could be attributed to ageing trains, stating that some issues stemmed from temporary instability linked to ongoing system upgrades. “Some disruptions may be perceived as system failures by passengers, but they could be related to system improvements currently being carried out. These systems require time to stabilise,” he said.

“Typically, it takes between one and two years for a system to reach stable performance. That is why projects come with a two-year defect liability period, during which performance is closely monitored and improvements are made,” he explained.

He acknowledged the rising passenger demand for the service, with the line recording a load factor of 109% in April, signifying an increasing reliance on public transport. As such, Rapid Rail will increase the number of trains in operation where possible, while implementing crowd management measures to ensure commuter safety.

“We understand that more people are depending on public transport, especially with fuel subsidy changes and the government’s push for greater public transport use. “This is a heavy responsibility for us, but Prasarana and Rapid Rail will continue doing everything we can to provide the best possible service despite the constraints we face,” he said.

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