Exploring sustainable transportation

Nov 24, 2023

By Marilyn Menezes Simon
In line with the Year 4 PROTEC (Protect Our Earth, Protect Our Children) initiative, the KL Archdiocesan Creation Justice Ministry organised a visit to the MRT depot in Sungai Buloh on November 6. The excursion was aimed at promoting reduced fuel consumption and encouraging public transportation, as per the theme for this year Cut Fuel Consumption.

Participants from different faiths and age groups embarked on a journey from Brickfields, engaging in interactions that fostered better understanding among them.

Upon arrival at the depot, the group was taken to the training room for an enlightening session.

Insights into the depot’s central maintenance facility, responsible for daily train overhauls and maintenance schedules, were shared. The emphasis on passenger safety, highlighted by the 3000 installed cameras, captivated the participants. Terms like Rolling Stock, Signalling, and Power Systems were explained, unveiling the intricate workings of the trains. The group also learnt how trains are individually woken up/manually started, each morning at 3.30am to check their functioning and to manage the power. A manned Sweep Train, with an Obstruction Detection Bar (ODB), checks for potential hazards on the tracks.

Participants were introduced to the various types of travel cards available at the stations, from the My 50 Unlimited Travel Pass to the PULSE mobile app for public transport assistance. A glimpse into the Control Room revealed the meticulous monitoring of train operations, leaving the participants in awe.

The outdoor session included observing trains under maintenance and a brief ride, offering a first-hand view of the control panel. Bonding over lunch, participants and staff shared their appreciation for the MRT system’s efficient functioning.

Theresa Symons, a participant, remarked, “I got a deeper appreciation of the MRT system and all the personnel that ensure it is working smoothly to provide affordable transportation to the public – a massive ecosystem that is well maintained.”

The Creation Justice Ministry extends gratitude to the Rapid Rail staff for their cooperation and encourages everyone to explore the convenience of public transport.