Kuala lumpur: KTM Komuter Klang Valley and Electric Train Service (ETS) operations faced significant disruptions today after a wooden structure from a third-party construction site collapsed onto the railway tracks near Batang Benar, damaging the overhead power system.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) issued a statement indicating that the structure impacted the overhead line system between Batang Benar and Labu stations, causing a power supply disruption that affected train services.

As a consequence, KTM Komuter services from Pulau Sebang towards KL Sentral are now terminating at Seremban Station, while trains heading to KL Sentral or Batu Caves are only operating from Bangi Station. The statement advised that no KTM Komuter services are currently running between Bangi and Seremban stations, urging affected passengers to seek alternative transportation methods to continue their journeys.

To assist commuters affected by the disruption, KTMB has launched three shuttle bus services operating between Seremban, Tiroi, Batang Benar, Labu, and Bangi stations. For ETS passengers, seven shuttle buses have been arranged at KL Sentral, Bandar Tasik Selatan, Kajang, and Seremban stations. Passengers opting not to continue their journey from their departure station are entitled to a full refund.

KTMB's preliminary investigation revealed that the Public Works Department (JKR) contractor involved in the wayleave project did not adhere to necessary safety procedures. The contractor failed to provide a complete work schedule and did not notify KTMB about the specific timing of the bridge construction works on the day the incident occurred.

Under the Site Entry Permit Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), three KTMB technical representatives, from the Regional Engineer, Signalling and Communications, and Electrification departments, are required to be on-site for monitoring once full approval is granted and all necessary documentation is submitted.

KTMB's technical team is currently working to repair the damaged overhead line system to restore train services as swiftly as possible. The statement concluded with an apology from KTMB for the inconvenience caused by the unforeseen incident, emphasizing that the safety of passengers and train operations remains their highest priority. Passengers are encouraged to check KTMB's official social media platforms or consult station staff for the latest service updates.