New signalling system launches smoothly despite minor glitches on MTR’s Tsuen Wan line

Some trains were misaligned with the platform screen doors on the MTR’s Tsuen Wan line on the first day a new signalling system in Hong Kong was implemented, but such teething problems were rare in a launch that went largely according to plan.The MTR Corporation said on Sunday overall operations had been “smooth” following the departure of the first train at 6am, despite some “isolated” glitches. Some 200 staff were deployed to ensure that the line ran normally.“This morning we saw a few instances where the trains were not parked properly, requiring the drivers to manually move them a little to align with the platform screen doors,” said Cheris Lee Yuen-ling, deputy director of the MTR Corporation’s operating and metro segment.“But since we have deployed more colleagues to help out along the line, the impact on passengers should be minimal.”Monday would mark the first weekday after the new signalling system commenced operation. Lee advised passengers to check train service updates, while the MTR would continue to deploy additional staff at stations to handle any contingencies.The Tsuen Wan line is a vital train route in Hong Kong, connecting Central on Hong Kong Island to Tsuen Wan in the New Territories via Kowloon. The new signalling system was installed to improve automation and enhance the reliability of the city’s ageing rail network.