The operators of the Yellow and Pink monorail systems have announced a crucial safety upgrade: reinforcing the guidewheels on every train. This move, unveiled by BTS Group Holdings’ CEO Surapong Laoha-unya, aims to bolster public confidence in both monorail lines, ensuring the safety of commuters and motorists below.
Surapong Laoha-unya, who also serves as the director of Eastern Bangkok Monorail Co (EBM) and Northern Bangkok Monorail (NBM), emphasized the need for heightened safety measures following a January 2 incident. On that day, a guidewheel from a Yellow Line monorail train detached and struck a taxi traveling below on Theparak Road. Understandably, this event sparked concerns about the safety protocols in place.
To address these concerns, EBM conducted an exhaustive review with Alstom Thailand—the manufacturer of the train—and replaced all parts deemed necessary to assure passenger safety. But they didn’t stop there. To prevent any future incidents, Alstom will introduce a robust locking mechanism designed to keep guidewheels securely in place, even in the event of a failure.
The new locking mechanism is crafted from stainless steel, ensuring it is both sturdy and durable, a critical step in preventing avoidable accidents. This innovative mechanism will undergo initial testing on one Yellow Line train beginning at the end of the month. If the tests are successful, the entire Yellow Line fleet will be retrofitted with the new system.
Following the successful implementation on the Yellow Line, NBM will also adopt the reinforced guidewheels for trains servicing the Pink Line. “We’re committed to ensuring the highest safety standards,” Surapong declared, a sentiment that should reassure daily commuters.
In addition to these hardware improvements, EBM is ramping up the frequency of its safety checks along the entire monorail line. These checks will be conducted under the vigilant oversight of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand and the Department of Rail Transport.
Safety isn’t just a buzzword for the EBM and NBM; it’s a commitment they are willing to reinforce—literally. With these measures, the operators are sending a clear message: whether you’re riding above or driving below, your safety is their top priority.
Well, it’s about time they did something about safety! That poor taxi driver could have been killed!
I agree, Anna. It’s shocking it took an accident for them to act.
Do you guys even know how complex these systems are? Safety updates take time and precision.
Still, tech upgrades shouldn’t come at the cost of lives. Better late than never, I suppose.
I think people are overreacting. One incident doesn’t mean the whole system is flawed.
Interesting how they only acted after the accident. Where was the proactive maintenance?
It’s not just about maintenance. Unpredictable failures can happen even with regular checks.
Maybe, but wouldn’t advanced engineering anticipate these ‘unpredictable’ issues?
Exactly! There should have been preventive measures already in place.
The stainless steel mechanism is a good move. Safety should always be prioritized.
But will stainless steel really make that much difference? Sounds like PR talk to me.
Stainless steel is durable and less prone to wear and tear. It can make a big difference.
Agreed, Tech_Guru. Plus, the rigorous testing will ensure its efficacy.
So glad they are not just focusing on the new mechanisms but also increasing the frequency of safety checks. Double the effort, double the safety.
But what about the inconvenience to commuters during these upgrades? Has anyone thought of that?
Safety over convenience, Tanya. Would you rather risk another accident?
Of course not, but I hope they manage to minimize disruption.
True, disruptions are a concern, but this could be a small price to pay.
I hope they are also considering driver retraining and updated safety protocols for operators.
That’s a good point. Mechanical improvements are only part of the solution.
Sometimes, I think people forget that we’re living in one of the safest eras of public transportation. Accidents will happen.
This is a great example of how urban transit systems need to adapt and evolve.
Agreed. It’s a constant process, and public safety must always be the driving force.
Remember the early days of the underground trains in London? People were scared to death! At least we have better technology now.
Looks like Alstom is stepping up. Good to see manufacturers taking responsibility too.
True, Lena. Their involvement is crucial for long-term safety.
What did they do about the damaged taxi and the driver? Anyone know?
I read somewhere that the driver wasn’t seriously injured, thank goodness.
Incorporating new tech in old systems is always a challenge. Kudos to the engineers working on this.
Hopefully, this sets a precedent for other cities to follow.
Let’s hope it doesn’t become an excuse to hike fares though.