Singapore Opens New Railway Testing Center

Singapore’s Ministry of Transport has announced the completion of a state-of-the-art railway testing center. Spanning 50 hectares, the facility is designed to conduct comprehensive testing of rolling stock, marking a significant step forward in the city-state’s rail infrastructure development.

The center features three railway lines with a combined length of 8.6 kilometers, equipped to support various signaling and communication systems. The first track is dedicated to high-speed testing, engineered with minimal curvature and gradients to allow trains to reach speeds of up to 100 km/h. This track is fitted with both overhead catenary systems and a third rail to accommodate different power configurations.

The second track is tailored for integrated testing, evaluating train performance and compatibility with diverse railway infrastructure and communication systems. This ensures that new rolling stock can seamlessly integrate with Singapore’s existing network.

The third track is designed to simulate challenging terrain, featuring inclines and declines to test trains under varied landscape conditions. It will also measure the performance of rolling stock after covering specific distances, providing critical data on durability and reliability.

Beyond the tracks, the testing center includes an operations control hub, administrative offices, workshops, and dedicated areas for inspection and maintenance, where train upgrades will also be carried out. According to Singapore’s Ministry of Transport, the facility will alleviate pressure on the country’s operational rail network and eliminate the need for overseas testing, enhancing efficiency and self-reliance in rail development.

This new center positions Singapore as a leader in railway innovation, ensuring its transport systems remain at the cutting edge while meeting the demands of a growing urban population.