Project Profile: LRT3 Shah Alam Line, Malaysia

The Light Rail Transit Line 3 (LRT3), officially designated the Shah Alam Line, is a critical infrastructure project extending automated rail connectivity across the western corridor of the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley. This profile outlines the project’s technical specifications, key contractors, and strategic objectives, focusing on its role in integrating urban transit and stimulating economic development. The line employs Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4) driverless technology to ensure high-frequency, efficient public transport service.

Project Fact Sheet

Technical Specifications

Route and Civil Infrastructure

The 37.6 km alignment connects Bandar Utama with Johan Setia, featuring 20 stations and five provisional future stations. The majority of the route is elevated on reinforced concrete (RC) viaducts constructed from box girder segments. A 2 km underground section through Shah Alam utilizes cut-and-cover tunneling techniques supported by diaphragm walls. The project also includes the construction of a main depot facility in Johan Setia for maintenance, repair, and operational oversight.

Signalling and Rolling Stock

The Shah Alam Line operates on a Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, enabling Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4) for fully automated, driverless train operations. This technology allows for a high service frequency of trains every two minutes. The rolling stock consists of 22 sets of six-car light metro trains, designed for a 30-year operational lifespan with a capacity to transport 36,720 passengers per hour per direction (PPHPD). Passenger safety is enhanced by Platform Screen Doors (PSD) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) at all stations.

Key Takeaways

• Enhanced Western Corridor Connectivity: The LRT3 directly integrates the western regions of the Klang Valley, including Shah Alam and Klang, with the existing urban rail network, projected to serve over 74,000 daily commuters and alleviate severe traffic congestion.
• Advanced Automation and Efficiency: Deployment of GoA4 driverless CBTC technology positions the LRT3 as a modern, high-capacity transit system, ensuring operational efficiency, high frequency, and enhanced safety standards.
• Catalyst for Urban and Economic Growth: The project is a key driver for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), stimulating economic activity, creating approximately 2,000 jobs during its construction phase, and increasing property values around its 20 new stations.

FAQ

When will the LRT3 Shah Alam Line open?

The LRT3 Shah Alam Line is currently in the final phases of construction and testing. While the initial target was 2025, it is now anticipated to commence full operations in early 2026, with the possibility of a phased opening schedule.

Who is building the LRT3 line?

The primary turnkey contractor for the LRT3 project is MRCB George Kent (MRCBGK), a joint venture between Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB) and George Kent (Malaysia) Berhad. Key technology and systems are supplied by a consortium of Siemens and Rasma, responsible for the signalling and train control systems.