Wee: Probe into LRT train collision to be conducted immediately

KUALA LUMPUR (May 25): Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said further investigation into the cause of the collision between two LRT trains at an underground section near the KLCC station here tonight will be conducted immediately.

Bernama reported him as saying that his ministry will set up a special task force to investigate the cause of the accident. The task force will involve experts from various agencies, including from the Transport Ministry, Prasarana Malaysia Bhd and the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD).

"The preliminary report would be sent to APAD director-general tomorrow morning," he told a media conference at the scene yesterday.

He expects the result of the investigation by the special task force to be presented to the ministry in two weeks. “In two weeks, we will identify whether it was due to error in the signalling system, miscommunication or human error,” he said in the report.

Wee also said that this was the first such incident involving the LRT trains throughout its 23-year of operation in the country. “The impact of the collision was very great, with the passenger-carrying train moving at a speed of 40km per hour, while the empty train was travelling at a speed of 20km per hour. This incident is a lesson for everyone and we must ensure that the safety factor of public transport services is emphasised."

On the LRT operation for the Kelana Jaya-Gombak line that has been affected, he said Prasarana will provide shuttle buses and further information would be announced from time to time. He added that the Transport Ministry and Prasarana will also discuss insurance coverage for the affected victims.

In the 8.45pm accident yesterday, 47 passengers were seriously injured while 166 others were slightly injured. 

Earlier, Wee said on his Facebook post that he is currently at Avenue K, after receiving news about the incident. "Passengers with injuries have been rushed to nearby hospitals for follow-up treatment."

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