MRT3: First set of Dalian train to run during off-peak hours starting Tuesday

The first set of the Dalian train will start running at the MRT3 line on Tuesday night, according to the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

"Starting today, 15 October 2019, one Dalian train set (equivalent to three train coaches) will hit the tracks of MRT-3 mainline during evening off-peak hours, from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.," the DOTr said in a statement.

DOTr MRT-3 Press Release
15 October 2019

MRT-3 ADDS FIRST DALIAN TRAIN SET TO ITS REGULAR FLEET

Starting today, 15 October 2019, one Dalian train set (equivalent to three train coaches) will hit the tracks of MRT-3 mainline during evening off-peak hours, from 8:30PM to 10:30PM. pic.twitter.com/oynHqSqkXL

— DOTr MRT-3 (@dotrmrt3) October 14, 2019

A consent for limited deployment of one Dalian train set was signed by Sumitomo Corporation-Mitsubishi Heavy Industries-TES Philippines on Monday, kickstarting its trial period.

The DOTr said the maintenance provider will begin the rail replacement works in November.

"Currently, three Dalian trains (9 train coaches) sets have already completed the necessary commissioning and validation tests including the 150-hour run," the DOTr said.

Each set of Dalian train can carry 1,050 passengers per trip.

The trains were acquired from China-based CRRC Dalian Co. Ltd.

In 2016, Dalian delivered 48 trains that were purchased by the Aquino administration but were never put to use because the trains were incompatible with MRT system and “overweight.”

The look of the trains' interior is not far from the old MRT trains, except for the new set of seats and handrails. —Dona Magsino/KG, GMA News