MRT3 eyes 4-car train setup to increase carrying capacity

From the usual 3-car train setup, the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 is planning to expand its configuration to 4 cars in a set, to increase passenger carrying capacity.

In a Facebook post on Friday, the MRT3 management said the plan to use a 4-car train setup stems from the successful "dynamic testing" operation on March 9, 2022.

It said that MRT3 is eyeing to expand the line's carrying capacity by deploying trains with 4 cars in each set.

This was after the successful dynamic testing of a train in 4-car configuration that was done to assess the vehicle's running safety, ride comfort, and stability against derailment, among others.

"With 4-car train sets, we can further increase our line capacity, which will enable us to serve more riding public with safe and reliable transport system as the country navigates into the 'new normal'," Director for Operations Michael Capati was quoted as saying. 

According to the management, MRT3's station platforms are designed to accommodate 4-car train operation.

But the pocket track, where trains park off the main line, has been found to have insufficient length to accommodate the safe operation of trains in 4-car configuration.

Thus, the recommendation is to redesign the track at the north side of the mainline to allow for the safe operation of 4-car train sets. —LBG, GMA News