PNR launches new flood-proof trains

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) has rolled out its new and flood-proof trains after finishing test runs on Thursday, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said.

According to a report of Saleema Refram on GMA News TV’s Balitanghali, the new coaches are more modern and have diesel hydraulic locomotives (DHLs).

Unlike diesel electric locomotives, trains with DHLs can still work when submerged in over a foot-high flood without being damaged.

DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade said that PNR no longer has to suspend its operations during flooding because of this technology.

The new trains can accommodate 1,250 passengers. But in observance of health protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the management will only allow around 700 passengers for the meantime.

With the additional units, 12 trains are now available to be used in the railway from Tutuban to Alabang Stations. The interval between trips is also cut from 1.5 hours down to 24 to 26 minutes.

These new units are the last batch of trains as part of the rehabilitation of the PNR, which started in 2018. -Joviland Rita/MDM, GMA News