LRT emergency braking incident on 2-May-2022, Rapid KL issues apology

Rapid KL, a subsidiary of Prasarana Malaysia Bhd and operator of the rail public transport network, apologized for the emergency braking incident, that occured at 11.20 pm on 2-May-2022.

Train 64 which was driven automatically (without a driver) experienced technical problems while on its way from Dang Wangi LRT Station to Kg Baru LRT Station. 

Guided by the safety settings of the Bombardier Mark II train system, Train 64 applied the emergency brake so that operations would stop immediately to prevent dangerous and unwanted incidents from occurring.

“Emergency brakes are applied automatically when the system detects technical problems while the train is operating. It is a ‘failsafe’ technique that needs to be done so that only safe trains are allowed to continue their journey,” explained Rapid KL in a statement today.

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Depending on the speed of the train when the emergency brake is applied, passengers may experience loss of balance or perhaps falling if they are standing and not holding the handrails provided.

Later, Train 64 was removed from service at KLCC Station, and operations officers helped remove passengers to the platform to get the next train.

Rapid KL also apologizes and assures that appropriate follow-up action will be taken to ensure that such things will not happen again in the future.

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“We apologize for the incident and would like to emphasize that all technical problems experienced by the trains we operate are investigated thoroughly and thoroughly so that preventive or maintenance measures can be taken immediately.

Regarding the sudden use of emergency brakes, we are in discussions with the train manufacturers so that a less sudden approach can be used to avoid any injuries to passengers,” the statement added.

Rapid KL will also ensure staff at the station are on alert and ready to assist passengers and share updates on train conditions and service operations so that they can better plan their next trip.