During the weeks of 3, 17, and 24 March, metro line 5 will not operate between Weststation and Erasmus after 9 p.m. in Anderlecht. A replacement bus service will be provided to ensure passengers reach their destinations. The service interruptions will allow MIVB to test the newly installed CBTC (Communication Based Train Control) signalling system along this section of the line, aiming to improve the efficiency of the metro system.
The specific dates for the service disruption are as follows:
- Monday, 3 March to Sunday, 9 March: 9 p.m. onwards
- Monday, 17 March to Friday, 21 March: 9 p.m. onwards
- Monday, 24 March to Friday, 28 March: 9 p.m. onwards
Shuttle buses will operate between Erasmus and Weststation during these times, with schedules subject to change based on any football matches in Anderlecht.
Testing the new Anderlecht metro CBTC system
The service interruptions provide an opportunity to thoroughly test the new CBTC system. The testing will involve both the new control system for real-time monitoring of metro traffic and the equipment in the tunnels and onboard the metro trains.
The current signalling system, in operation since 1976, has proven to be robust, efficient, and safe. However, with the advent of new metro trains and increased traffic on busy lines such as Line 1 and Line 5, a modernisation was necessary. The upgraded CBTC system will allow for higher frequencies and better management of metro traffic.
With the new system, trains will be able to follow each other more closely while ensuring safety. Line 5 will be among the first to benefit from this upgrade, alongside Line 1.
The installation of CBTC is part of a broader initiative to modernise the metro network. This initiative includes not only the new signalling system but also the purchase of M7 metro trains and the retrofit of older trains.
So far, more than half of the 43 M7 sets have been delivered and are now in service. Additionally, 13 out of 21 M6 trains have been equipped with CBTC. The section of tunnel between Aumale and Erasmus has already been upgraded with CBTC, and installation is currently underway between the Jacques Brel and Stokkel stations. The next phase will focus on the section from Thieffry to Herrmann-Debroux, with installation scheduled for April.
As part of the transition to CBTC, the dispatching system will also be upgraded with new software for real-time traffic management. This update requires comprehensive staff training and numerous test drives to ensure smooth operation when the system is fully implemented.
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