The Klang Valley Double Track Phase II (KVDT2) rail upgrade project covers 265 kilometers from Abdullah Hukum to Port Klang and from Salak Selatan to Seremban routes. It began in 2023 and involves improving tracks, signalling systems, and overhead lines across the network [1, 2, 3, 4].
The original rail tracks were built in 1994 and now require modernization after more than 30 years of service. KTMB Chief Operating Officer Afzar Zakariya said, "The KVDT2 track was originally an old track built in 1994. After more than 30 years, the track and integrated system applications need to be upgraded from a track with an axle load capacity of 16 tonnes to 20 tonnes" [2].
The upgrade will increase the track's axle load capacity from 16 to 20 tonnes. Sections from Salak Selatan to Port Klang already have one full track operational for freight trains at the higher axle load, while the Bangi to Seremban line's single track is fully completed. Current work focuses on the Bandar Tasik Selatan to Bangi segment [3, 4].
Train service frequency will improve significantly once the project is finished, going from every 20 minutes currently to every 15 minutes, and as frequent as every 7 to 7.5 minutes on some lines. Station facilities are also getting enhancements including improved accessibility, roofing, and ground works [1, 2, 3, 4].
During construction, only one track is closed at a time, with the other operating KTM Komuter, ETS, and freight services. Nightly track closures occur from 9:30 pm to 5:30 am, and daytime train frequency is reduced from 10 am to 4 pm to allow for construction activities [3, 4].
Measures have been taken to prevent cable theft, a known issue affecting rail infrastructure. Cables are now buried 0.8 meters underground, and joint patrols with contractors have been implemented [3, 4].
Despite challenges caused by Middle East conflicts impacting logistics and lorry movements, Project Deputy Director Manoj Radhakrishnan said, "it did not stop the ongoing rehabilitation work" [2].
The project was initially scheduled to complete in 2029 but is now expected to finish by the end of 2027, about 1-2 years earlier than planned [1, 2, 3, 4]. The full 20-tonne axle load route is expected to be operational by mid-2026, supporting the government’s Road-to-Rail shift [3, 4].
On May 20, 2026, KTMB's Chief Operating Officer and officials conducted a media site visit to inspect construction progress [2, 3, 4]. The KVDT2’s timely completion aims to deliver increased capacity and improved reliability for rail users in the Klang Valley region.
