Recommendations to bolster the electrical system of Singapore's rail system are a step in the right direction, industry watchers say, but they will also result in higher investments, reported The Straits Times. 

Associate Professor Gooi Hoay Beng from the Nanyang Technological University's School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering said more money will have to be spent on hardware component maintenance and replacement. The professor was responding to recommendations made by a 13-man panel assembled last December by the Land Transport Authority to look into ways to improve the electrical resilience of the rail system here.

Prof Gooi noted that an intelligent Fault Identification Software system - which can help pinpoint faults - is a sophisticated system that also requires heftier investment. He added, "It would take some time to acquire the necessary skills and targets but we will get there one day. If this can be achieved, it will mean that all commuters can look forward to improved reliability and fewer delays. This is good news for all."

National University of Singapore Transport Researcher Lee Der Horng said that many of the recommendations made by the panel "are what should have been in place". "Nevertheless, it is good to let the people know that power-related issues are being taken care of," he added.