\n<\/p>\n
Beyond scheduling constraints, Mr Siow highlighted other hurdles in maintaining and upgrading the rail system.<\/p>\n
One is the slow pace of technological advancement in public transport. While metro systems are typically state-of-the-art when first opened, they soon become outdated.<\/p>\n
\u201cTechnology moves very quickly, but legacy systems cannot be upgraded easily,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Although sensors that track real-time performance have become cheaper, retrofitting older systems to collect such data remains difficult and costly. Many maintenance tasks also remain manual, such as tunnel inspections.<\/p>\n
Mr Siow noted that operators are developing new technological tools: SBS Transit is working on a robotic dog to inspect trains for faults, while SMRT has automated its Bishan depot using rail-guided vehicles and advanced equipment.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut I think much more can be done in this area,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Another challenge is the shortage of new talent. Rail maintenance jobs are physically demanding, making it difficult to draw in younger workers, he said.<\/p>\n
At the same time, newer metro systems require highly specialised technical skills in electrical, mechanical and systems engineering, where competition for talent is intense.<\/p>\n
Institutions such as the Singapore Rail Academy and National Transport Academy, along with initiatives like the SGRail Industry Scholarship, aim to nurture the next generation of rail professionals.<\/p>\n
Mr Siow added that part of a S$1 billion (US$767 million) fund set aside for rail maintenance will support manpower development.<\/p>\n
\u201cAll these efforts will take some time to bear fruit, but I believe we will have better manpower outcomes in the coming years,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n