Rapid KL LRT train derails after faulty track switch

A Rapid KL train in Kuala Lumpur derailed following a faulty track switch, resulting in disruption to the Ampang/Sri Petaling line.

Passengers seen evacuating onto tracks

According to Rapid KL, 25 passengers were on the Light Rapid Transit (LRT) train at the time of the derailment, which took place on the morning of May 28.

All passengers were safely evacuated with no injuries reported, according to The Star.

Footage of the derailment shared to Facebook showed passengers emerging from the train onto the tracks and walking towards a station.

In response to the derailment, Rapid KL said it had activated alternative train services and free shuttle buses.

Special task force formed to investigate derailment

Malaysia's Transport Minister, Anthony Loke, was also quoted as saying he would take full responsibility and that a special task force had been formed to investigate the derailment.

According to Loke, the derailment had occurred during a track switch just outside Chan Sow Lin station.

While the first carriage of the six-carriage train was on the correct track, the carriages behind veered onto the track heading towards Ampang.

This led to the first and second carriages being pulled by the rear carriages off the track, causing their derailment, Loke was quoted by The Edge Malaysia as saying.

"We are fortunate that the train had just started moving and had not reached its maximum speed," he added.

The track will resume operations by Jun. 3.

Restoration works are underway after the trains were cleared.