Starting next year, the MRT-3 will possibly be fielding four coaches-long all its trains to accommodate more passengers.
MRT director for operations Michael Capati said they have already deployed two of such trains, and by next year, all the trains will have four cars.
The rollout of two four-car trains started this week. Each can accommodate more than 1,500 passengers, compared to the three-car trains which could carry only 1,182 passengers.
Each car could accommodate 394 people.
The facility underwent rehabilitation which was completed in December last year.
The MRT-3’s platforms were designed to accommodate four-car trains, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) had said.
Capati assured the public that their facilities are ready with the expected influx of passengers, with the continuing rehabilitation of the MRT-3’s station control rooms and ticket offices.
Our system is now fully rehabilitated and the passengers are urged to follow health protocols, Capati said
Meanwhile, a total of 281,507 passengers availed of th MRT-3 free rides on Monday, the first day of the promo, Capati said.
This is expected to peak to 300,000 to 400,000 daily until April 30, he said.
President Duterte last week announced the free rides following the completion of the railway’s rehabilitation.
An average of 18 to 22 trains ply the MRT railway system.
Despite the pandemic, transport authorities said MRT-3 booked an average of 280,000 commuters daily.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and MRT3 said they would study extending the free ride offer beyond April 30.
At the Laging Handa public briefing, Capati said the first day (Monday) of free rides was “successful,” having served a total of 281,507 passengers.
A report on 24 Oras said that the free service caused long lines in various train stations on Monday, but the passengers were nonetheless delighted. They said the free rides were a huge help amid the rising prices of basic commodities.
Capati said they are expecting 300,000 to 400,000 passengers daily while the free ride scheme is in effect from March 28 to April 30. GMANEWS