{
  "id": 12348901,
  "title": "RTS Link tackles gradient, wet-weather braking challenges",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/rts-link-tackles-gradient-wet-weather-braking-challenges",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-06T09:47:14.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/10/1549124/rts-link-tackles-gradient-wet-weather-braking-challenges"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Johor Baru: A challenging three per cent viaduct gradient and wet-weather braking are among the engineering hurdles being overcome to ensure safe operations on the RTS Link, according to RTS Operations CEO Dr Ahmad Marzuki Ariffin. Despite its seemingly simple layout with only two stations -- one in Johor Baru, Malaysia, and the other in Woodlands North, Singapore -- the rail link demands intricate coordination between its trains, tracks, signalling systems and infrastructure. The viaduct's maximum gradient of three per cent, the steepest permissible, necessitates meticulous planning. To guarantee secure and reliable train travel, trains must maintain correct speeds and smoothly stop at the station, a task that hinges on the harmonious functioning of the track design, braking, and signalling systems. Wet conditions further complicate matters, as rain can diminish the wheel-rail grip, affecting both acceleration and braking. Rigorous testing is thus crucial to ensure the railway's dependability across various weather conditions. The RTS Link, initially slated for operation since January 1, 2027, has been rescheduled to February 2027, pending final safety certification and approvals. Construction of the 4km rail segment connecting Johor Baru's Bukit Chagar station to Singapore's Woodlands North station is almost complete.",
  "summary": "JOHOR BARU: A three per cent viaduct gradient and wet-weather braking are among the engineering challenges being tackled to ensure safe and reliable operations on the RTS Link.",
  "key_points": [
    "Three percent gradient poses engineering challenges for RTS Link",
    "Wet weather complicates braking, requiring rigorous testing",
    "Rail link connects Johor Baru, Malaysia, to Woodlands North, Singapore"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}