Transport minister Anthony Loke has instructed the land public transport agency (APAD) to take maximum punitive action against Prasarana Malaysia following the derailment of a LRT train on the Ampang-Sri Petaling Line earlier today.
In a statement, he said that the transport ministry viewed the train derailment, which occurred near the Chan Sow Lin station, as a very serious incident because it was not just a normal service disruption. Although all 25 passengers in the incident were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported, he said a derailment posed a high safety risk to everyone.
As such, he said the ministry was taking a firm stance on the incident, with APAD having opened an investigation paper on the matter. “I would like to emphasise that the board of directors and the Prasarana management team cannot continue with a “business-as-usual” attitude. Such incidents must be taken seriously, and no one in Prasarana’s top management will be exempt from accountability in this incident,” he said.
Loke added that that the ministry has set up a special task force to investigate the cause of the mishap, and the findings will be submitted to the cabinet as soon as possible, with the report to also be made public.
“Standards regarding safety and reliability of public services are not something that can be compromised. Serious action, including dismissal, must be taken by the Prasarana board of directors against any party found negligent in their responsibility, in order to restore public confidence in the reliability of the rail system under Prasarana’s management,” he said.
As of this evening, the rail operator said that repair works at Chan Sow Lin station are still ongoing, and has provided an update on the schedule of alternative train and shuttle bus services, which continues to remain active.
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.