How did a defective train axle lead to extensive MRT service disruptions?

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A Defective Train Axle Caused Extensive MRT Service Disruptions

A significant disruption to Singapore's MRT services on the East-West Line was caused by a defective train axle box on a first-generation train. This component failure led to a cascade of events, including the derailment of a train bogie and subsequent damage to critical track infrastructure, ultimately resulting in a widespread power fault and service suspension between Jurong East and Buona Vista stations. The incident occurred as an older train was being withdrawn from service.
Train Axle Box Failure and Derailment

The root cause of the disruption was identified as a defective train axle box on one of the MRT's first-generation trains. When this component failed, it caused the wheels of a bogie, a structural frame that holds wheels, to detach from the running rail. This derailment event initiated a chain reaction of damage to the railway infrastructure.
Damage to Track Equipment

Following the derailment, the affected train came into contact with and damaged essential track equipment. Specifically, the incident involved the third rail, which supplies power to the trains, and point machines, which control the switching of tracks. This contact with critical infrastructure directly led to the subsequent power fault that affected the MRT line.
Power Fault and Service Disruption

The damage to the third rail and point machines triggered a significant power fault across the affected section of the East-West Line. This power interruption necessitated the immediate suspension of MRT services between Jurong East and Buona Vista stations. As a consequence, a train operating near Clementi station stalled due to the loss of power, further impacting commuter travel. The operator, SMRT, confirmed that engineers worked to restore service, with shuttle train services introduced as an interim measure on adjacent sections of the line.

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How did a defective train axle lead to extensive MRT service disruptions?

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