Bangkok’s BTS skytrain service was operating without any glitches this morning after the entire train network experienced massive delays caused by a malfunctioning signaling system last week.
It was a stress-free Monday morning for commuters after the BTS replaced the signal transceiver, which seems to have fixed the problem.
So what exactly caused last week’s interruptions and delays? Interference — the skytrain’s frequency spectrum was apparently too close to the frequency used by state-owned TOT Plc’s telecommunications services.
This morning, BTS switched to using a 2,430-2,495 megahertz (MHz) frequency spectrum, as opposed to using a spectrum near the end of 2,300 MHz, to avoid interference with TOT, Spring News reported.
Surapong Laoha-unya, the CEO of Bangkok Mass Transit System, rode the train with officials from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) this morning to ensure the service went smoothly.
NBTC concluded that BTS has indeed solved the problem as no signal malfunctions were detected, according to Bangkok Biz News.
READ: 9 ways the BTS should have improved by now
Last Monday, the malfunction caused massive delays across the skytrain network during rush hours. Many stations became overcrowded to the point that new passengers were barred from entering.
The problem, which sparked outrage and memes from furious commuters, reportedly continued through to Wednesday evening.
Surapong said BTS will be announcing plans to compensate passengers for last week’s delays by Thursday.
Meanwhile, after all was fixed, Deputy Bangkok Governor Sakolthee Pattiyakul went back on his promise to fine BTS THB1.8 million (US$54,000) for its delays. He said the city simply “can’t proceed with the fine, because the problem that occurred did not make BTS liable to a fine” without elaborating further.
And so our lives go on.
Related:
BTS to be fined THB1.8 million for this week’s disruptions
Bangkok Skytrain breaks down for the 11th time this month
Monday Morning Hell: Malfunctioning signaling system paralyzes Bangkok’s skytrain network
