Lesser trains, slightly longer wait for commuters with LRT-2 trains control panels upgraded

The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) has announced that the Train Operating Control Panel (TOCP) of trains on LRT Line 2 (LRT-2) are being upgraded.

"The goal of the transition from the old analog system to the digital TOCP is to improve the onboard Public Address (PA) System. With the new system, the delivery of announcements and important communications for passengers will be automated," the LRTA said in a statement.

With the upgrade lasting for five days per train, there will be lesser trains available on certain days and longer waiting time for commuters.

The changes due to the upgrade are as follows:

• Only nine trains will operate on the line from Tuesday to Sunday. So, commuters will have to wait a little longer and there will also be an increase in passengers in some of the stations.
• On Mondays, when passenger traffic is expected to peak at the start of the week, all ten (10) operational trains will be deployed to ensure smooth service.

However, the LRTA said that as part of efforts to maintain the smooth flow of passengers, appropriate crowd control and passenger assistance measures will be implemented at the stations.

"This is the first time that the TOCP has been replaced since the line began operations in 2004," said LRTA.

"The operational LRT-2 trains are over 27 years old, so they need to undergo upgrading and modernization. These measures are part of the LRTA's ongoing efforts to improve the reliability, efficiency, and safety of service for LRT-2 passengers," it added. — BAP, GMA News

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