143-398: The Downtown Line ( DTL ) is a medium-capacity Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line in Singapore . It runs from Bukit Panjang station in the north-west of the country towards Expo station in the east via a loop around the city-centre . Coloured blue on the rail map, the line serves 34 stations, all of which are underground. The DTL is the fifth MRT line on the network to be opened and
286-556: A circle-radial topology . Two more lines and 46 stations are currently under construction, in addition to ongoing extension works on existing lines. In total, this will schedule the network to double in length to about 460 km (290 mi) by 2040. Further studies are ongoing on potential new alignments and lines, as well as infill stations in the Land Transport Authority 's (LTA) Land Transport Masterplan 2040. The island-wide heavy rail network interchanges with
429-506: A computer-based Interlocking system which controls the track switches and interfaces with the ATC and the data-management system. The DMS, monitored by station staff, oversees the signalling equipment, platform doors and trains. The ATP system maintains a buffer between trains. The minimum permitted distance is 30 metres (98 ft), although the average distance between trains is at least 600 metres (2,000 ft). Using microwave technology,
572-607: A cumulative S$ 150 billion in 2021, making the network one of the world's costliest on both a per-kilometre and absolute basis. The system is managed in conformity with a semi-nationalised hybrid regulatory framework; construction and procurement fall under the purview of the Land Transport Authority (LTA), a statutory board of the government that allocates operating concessions to the for-profit private corporations SMRT and SBS Transit . These operators are responsible for asset maintenance on their respective lines, and also run bus services, facilitating operational synchronicity and
715-567: A few days of the weekend. The nightly closures are used for maintenance. During the COVID-19 pandemic across the country , train services ended earlier from 7 April 2020 to 1 June 2020 and service extensions on the eves of public holidays ceased from 7 April 2020 until 28 September 2024 except New Year's Eve. Train service extensions were reinstated back to before the pandemic began in 2020 as mentioned earlier. Train frequencies are 2 - 3 mins during peak hours and 5 - 6 mins during off-peak hours. If
858-694: A few paintings or sculptures representing the recent past of Singapore, mounted in major stations. The opening of the Woodlands Extension introduced bolder pieces of artwork, such as a 4,000 kg sculpture in Woodlands . With the opening of the North East Line in 2003, a series of artworks under a programme called "Art in Transit" were commissioned by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). Created by 19 local artists and integrated into
1001-511: A groundbreaking ceremony at Beauty World station . The line inaugurated on 27 December 2015, with free travel for all 18 stations from 27 December 2015 to 1 January 2016. Stage 3 goes from Chinatown to Expo . The station locations and finalised route were unveiled on 20 August 2010. Stage 3 of the Downtown line is 21 kilometres (13 mi) long and serve 16 stations. The route opened on 21 October 2017, with free travel for all DTL stations on
1144-650: A loop in the eastern regions, aimed to relieve the passenger load on the often-congested East–West Line and benefiting those living in Tampines , Bedok and Marine Parade . On 14 June 2005, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced the Downtown Extension (renamed to "Downtown Line Stage 1"), which would serve the New Downtown at Marina Bay area, where an integrated resort ( Marina Bay Sands ) and Singapore's second botanical garden ( Gardens by
1287-469: A number of changes in plans. In October 2014, it was announced that Stage 2's opening would be pushed back to the first quarter of 2016. This was because one of the main contractors for the DTL2, Alpine Bau (which was building King Albert Park , Sixth Avenue and Tan Kah Kee ), went bankrupt in mid-2013. On 28 June 2015, Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew announced that the delay was "completely resolved" by
1430-450: A passenger emergency communications system which allows communication between passengers and the OCC. The trains have wide seats and dedicated space for wheelchair users. The trains are made of fire-resistant materials and include fire and smoke detectors and a fire barrier under its frame. They have a pair of beams ( rail guards ) which detect obstacles in the train's path; smaller debris
1573-460: A passenger service centre (PSC) on its concourse. The PSCs are generally curved, unlike the boxier designs of those in older MRT stations. In addition to assisting passengers and checking and topping up their fare cards, the PSC staff monitors and controls the functions of connecting tunnels and communicates with the OCC at the depot. When a station is used as a civil-defence (CD) shelter, the PSC becomes
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#17327721398251716-556: A plan to introduce dual speeds to escalators along the North–South and East–West lines, to make it safer for senior citizens using them. As a result, all escalators on the two lines, through a refurbishment programme, will be able to operate at a different speed of 0.5 m/s during off-peak hours, with completion being targeted for 2022. All stations constructed before 2001 initially lacked barrier-free facilities and wider AFC faregates such as lifts, ramps and tactile guidance systems for
1859-678: A preference. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) had considered other naming methods in June 2007, whether by name, colour or numbers. After the survey, however, the naming scheme was retained and used for subsequent future MRT lines. Except for the partly at-grade Bishan MRT station ( North–South Line ), the entirety of the MRT is either elevated or underground. Most below-ground stations are deep and hardened enough to withstand conventional aerial bomb attacks and to serve as bomb shelters . Mobile phone, 3G, 4G and 5G services are available in every part of
2002-580: A series of automated guideway transit networks localised to select suburban towns — collectively known as the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system — which, along with public buses , complement the mainline by providing a last mile link between MRT stations and HDB public housing estates . The MRT is the oldest, busiest, and most comprehensive metro system in Southeast Asia . Capital expenditure on its rail infrastructure reached
2145-499: A station interlocking system. The ATO drives the train in automatic mode, providing the traction and braking control demands to the train rolling stock system, adjusts its speed upon approaching the station, and provides the control of opening and closing of train and platform screen doors once the train has stopped at the station. The ATP ensures safe train separation by using the ATP track circuit status and by location determination, monitors
2288-456: A total of S$ 1 billion (US$ 3.5 billion). To construct the line, 20 ha (49 acres) of private land was acquired and 43 ha (110 acres) of government land was returned to the state. Several rental HDB blocks, private homes and shops were acquired, dismaying many affected residents. Those who had been asked to relocate in July 1996 requested more time to find new premises. Construction of
2431-488: A two-station extension consisting of Xilin and Sungei Bedok , is under construction and is scheduled to begin operations in 2026. By 2026, it will be about 45 kilometres (28 mi) long with 37 stations, and will serve more than half a million commuters daily. An extension to connect with the North South Line at Sungei Kadut is also being planned and set to open in the mid-2030s. At the official opening of
2574-518: A two-year contract for consultancy in November 1982. The Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRTC)—later renamed SMRT Corporation—was established on 14 October 1983 and took over the roles and responsibilities of the former provisional Mass Rapid Transit Authority. On 7 November 1987, the first section of the North–South Line started operations, consisting of five stations over six kilometres. Within
2717-489: A year, 20 more stations had been added to the network and a direct service existed between Yishun and Lakeside stations, linking up Central Singapore to Jurong in the west by the end of 1988. The direct service was eventually split into the North–South and East–West lines after the latter's completion of the eastern sector to Tanah Merah station. By the end of 1990, the Branch line has further linked Choa Chu Kang to
2860-539: Is 32 minutes. The NEL initially had a higher fare than the North–South and East–West lines due to greater operating costs. On 30 December 2016, however, fares were lowered to match the other lines with a "purely distance-based approach". This revision, made after a fare review by the Public Transport Council , was intended to minimise commuter confusion. The first line operated by SBS Transit,
3003-537: Is a high-capacity Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line in Singapore . Operated by SBS Transit , the 20-kilometre (12-mile) line is the MRT's shortest. It runs from HarbourFront station in southern Singapore to Punggol station in the northeast, serving 16 stations via Chinatown , Little India , Serangoon and Hougang . Coloured purple on official maps, it is Singapore's third MRT line and the world's first fully-automated underground driverless heavy rail line. The NEL
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#17327721398253146-588: Is able to support bidirectional train operations on a single track, enabling trains to be diverted onto another track in the event of a fault on one track. The CBTC system also permits for improved braking performance in wet weather as compared to the original fixed-block ATC. All new MRT lines built since the North East Line in 2003 were equipped with CBTC from the outset, and have the capability to be completely driverless and automated, requiring no on-board staffing. Operations are monitored remotely from
3289-713: Is currently used for the Downtown line . While major operations were shifted to the main Gali Batu Depot in 2015, the Tai Seng Facility Building resumed stabling operations with the extension of the Downtown line in 2017. It currently operates independently from Kim Chuan Depot. Gali Batu Depot is the first MRT depot in Singapore to achieve the certification of Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Green Mark Gold. In August 2014, plans for
3432-714: Is equipped with Siemens (previously Invensys before Siemens acquisition) Trainguard Sirius Communications-based train control (CBTC) moving block signalling system with Automatic train control (ATC) under Automatic train operation (ATO) GoA 4 (UTO). The subsystems consist of Automatic train protection (ATP) to govern train speed, Controlguide Rail 9000 Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) to track and schedule trains and Trackguard Westrace MK2 Computer-based interlocking (CBI) system that prevents incorrect signal and track points to be set. A fall-back signalling system, relying on conventional track-circuit occupancy detection,
3575-483: Is expected to continue towards the Punggol Coast station in 2024, curving east past Punggol. The line is coloured purple on official maps. The line has 16 stations from HarbourFront to Punggol. Eight stations (eventually nine upon completion of Cross Island line ) connect to other MRT/LRT lines. Punggol Coast, the seventeenth station on the line, is scheduled to open in 2024. A station designated "NE2", which
3718-442: Is included to ensure fully automatic operation and train protection independent of the radio system. Platform screen doors (PSDs) along the line were installed by Westinghouse Signal (Invensys Rail Group), supplied by Faiveley . The PSDs provide safety for passengers, offering protection from arriving and departing trains. Mass Rapid Transit (Singapore) [REDACTED] The Mass Rapid Transit system, locally known by
3861-491: Is planned to begin operations in 2026, adding an additional 2.2 kilometres (1.4 miles) and 2 stations to the line, terminating at Sungei Bedok and interchanging with the Thomson–East Coast Line. Upon opening, the entire line will be 44 kilometres (27 miles) long and have 37 stations in total. A proposal has been further mooted to extend the line from Bukit Panjang towards Sungei Kadut which will interchange with
4004-482: Is swept away, and the train automatically stops if the beams detect larger objects. A 1,500V overhead catenary system (OCS) powers the trains, the MRT network's first electrical system of that type. The OCS provides a safer environment for maintenance workers on the tracks and is less expensive, with a smaller conductor . In an emergency when the train is stopped, the doors on both sides can be opened easily without electricity and ramps lower for passenger evacuation in
4147-478: Is the world's first fully automated heavy-rail system. Its construction allowed the LTA to explore, integrate and implement new and existing technology as part of its vision of a fully-automated system. The line's automatic train control (ATC) is based on Alstom's MASTRIA software, which also manages its automatic train protection (ATP) and automatic train operation (ATO) GoA 4 (UTO). The Urbalis system also includes
4290-580: The Communications Ministry concluded that roads would be inadequate for projected traffic into the planned 21st-century housing estates. To minimise the impact on other development, the Ministry developed plans to determine which parcels of land would be needed for its construction. In December of that year, a British consultancy team consisting of Sir William Halcrow and Partners , Merz & McLellan and London Transport International
4433-811: The Dover station on 23 October 2001, then-Minister for Communications and Information Technology Yeo Cheow Tong announced three MRT lines, two of which―the Bukit Timah Line and the northern part of the Eastern Region Line―are part of today's DTL. The Bukit Timah Line aimed to alleviate the traffic problems along the Bukit Timah and Dunearn Road corridor, and provide a direct link to the city area for residents in Choa Chu Kang and Bukit Panjang . The proposed Eastern Region Line, slated to be
Downtown MRT line - Misplaced Pages Continue
4576-602: The East Coast Integrated Depot , the world's first four-in-one train and bus depot were announced. It will be built at Tanah Merah beside the original Changi Depot site to serve the East–West , Downtown , and Thomson–East Coast lines. The new 36 ha depot can house about 220 trains and 550 buses and integrating the depot for both buses and trains will help save close to 66.12 acres (26.76 ha), or 60 football fields of land. The Tengah Depot for
4719-700: The Jurong Region Line will be situated at the western perimeter of Tengah , and an additional depot facility will be added near Peng Kang Hill station to support the operations of the JRL. Rolling stock for the Jurong Region Line will be stabled at both facilities. Tengah Depot will house the JRL Operations Control Centre and have a bus depot integrated with it to optimise land use. The Changi East Depot will serve
4862-664: The National Fire Protection Association in the United States . Full-height platform screen doors were already installed in underground stations since 1987, supplied by Westinghouse . There were calls for platform screen doors to be installed at elevated stations after several incidents in which passengers were killed by oncoming trains when they fell onto the railway tracks at elevated stations. The authorities initially rejected such calls by casting doubts over functionality and concerns about
5005-909: The Singapore River and Fort Canning Hill to Dhoby Ghaut station, it continues north to Little India station under Bukit Timah Road. Following Race Course Road and Serangoon Road through Little India and Boon Keng , it crosses the Whampoa and Kallang Rivers before reaching Potong Pasir. Between the Potong Pasir and Kovan stations, the NEL parallels Upper Serangoon Road before curving north to Hougang station . The line then runs along Hougang Avenue 6 and Sengkang Central to Sengkang station in Sengkang and its terminus in Punggol . The NEL
5148-708: The Tampines Regional Centre and goes southwards, ending at Changi Business Park . The DTL3 extension (DTL3e) from Expo station will extend the line further towards the Thomson–East Coast line at Sungei Bedok station. Station codes for the line are blue, corresponding to the line's colour on the system map. Most stations have island platforms, with the exception of Downtown , Telok Ayer , Chinatown and MacPherson stations having side platforms whilst Stevens and Promenade stations having stacked side platforms. Legend List As of 2011,
5291-537: The downtown area of Singapore , to Tampines and the Singapore Expo in the east . It is 41.9 kilometres (26.0 mi) long and is entirely underground. Before Bukit Panjang station , there exists a brief northwards extension to the line's depot Gali Batu Depot . The line begins at the Bukit Panjang station and then goes in the southeast direction, running parallel to Upper Bukit Timah Road and along
5434-482: The forested core and the rural northwestern region – in accordance with Singapore's aim of developing a comprehensive rail network as the backbone of the country's public transportation system , averaging a daily ridership of 3.45 million in 2023. The MRT network encompasses approximately 241 km (150 mi) of grade-separated route on standard gauge . As of 2024, there are currently 141 operational stations dispersed across six operational lines arrayed in
5577-405: The initialism MRT , is a rapid transit system in Singapore and the island country's principal mode of railway transportation . The system commenced operations in November 1987 after two decades of planning with an initial 6 km (3.7 mi) stretch consisting of five stations. The network has since grown to span the length and breadth of the country's main island – with the exception of
5720-797: The Bay ) were to be located. The 3.4-kilometre (2.1-mile) extension, estimated to cost S$ 1.4 billion, was initially announced to be part of the Circle line. On 27 April 2007, then Transport Minister Raymond Lim announced that the Downtown Line would be built in three stages stretching 40 kilometres (25 miles) with 33 stations. The line was built in 3 stages: Stage 1 of the Downtown line, stretching 4.3-kilometre (2.7 mi), started construction in January 2008 at Chinatown station , where platform provisions were built to facilitate an interchange station during
5863-542: The Buangkok and Sengkang stations, is the service and storage area for NEL trains. Built by Hyundai Engineering and Construction for S$ 350 million (US$ 235.72 million), the 27 ha (67-acre) depot includes the OCC which monitors the line's train and station operations. The depot can accommodate up to 44 trains, with three additional stabling tracks being built for the NELe as of 2019. It also houses LRT trains for
Downtown MRT line - Misplaced Pages Continue
6006-801: The Bukit Timah Canal through Bukit Timah . The line then enters the central area , passing through Little India station before reaching the Central Business District via Bugis station. The Downtown line runs parallel to the Circle line at the Promenade and Bayfront stations. Passing through the Downtown Core , the line interchanges with the North East line at Chinatown station. After Chinatown station,
6149-827: The C751A, were delivered to Singapore beginning in July 2014 and were built in Shanghai between 2014 and 2016. To increase the line extension's passenger capacity, an additional six third-generation Alstom Metropolis C851E trains were ordered. Built in Barcelona , the first trainset arrived in Singapore on 4 April 2021 and entered service on 28 July 2023. The automatic trains are controlled by an operations control centre (OCC) at Sengkang Depot . The fleet's brake systems permit smooth, quiet stopping. Train speeds can reach 100 km/h (62 mph). Safety features include closed-circuit television cameras for train interiors and
6292-481: The Christmas and New Year's Eve falls on the weekday, train frequencies will remain the same as weekdays only during morning peak whereas it will become 5 - 6 mins until 3pm and standardised to 5 min frequency throughout the whole period until the last train. Early stages of the MRT's construction paid scant attention to station design, with an emphasis on functionality over aesthetics. This is particularly evident in
6435-521: The DTL is the longest underground and automated rapid transit line in Singapore as of 2017. It utilises the Bombardier Movia C951 electric multiple unit (EMU) and runs in a three-car formation. The line is set to have new stations and extensions in the 2020s and 2030s. An infill station initially constructed as part of Stage 2, Hume , is planned to begin operations in 2025. Stage 3e,
6578-452: The DTL trains to Gali Batu Depot during non-revenue hours. Kim Chuan Depot , together with the adjacent Tai Seng Facility Building , operated in a minor capacity until Stage 3 opened. A new depot, named the East Coast Integrated Depot , is planned to provide additional stabling capacity to the line in 2026. Testing on the integration of systems of Stage 3 and the rest of the line started from 14 May 2017 till 27 August 2017. The Downtown line
6721-516: The Downtown line has one type of rolling stock, the Bombardier MOVIA C951(A) cars, running in a three-car formation. They have been stabled at Gali Batu Depot since it opened with Stage 2 of the downtown line on 27 December 2015. For the period between the opening of Stage 1 and that of Stage 2, trains were stabled at a maintenance facility that was built at Marina Bay as part of the Circle line project. Kim Chuan Depot housed
6864-719: The East–West Line with its own maintenance facility, while Mandai Depot services trains for the Thomson–East Coast line. The underground Kim Chuan Depot houses trains for the Circle and Downtown lines, now jointly managed by the two MRT operators. SBS Transit has three depots: Sengkang Depot houses trains for the North East line , the Sengkang LRT line , and the Punggol LRT line . Tai Seng Facility Building , connected to and located east of Kim Chuan Depot ,
7007-498: The Founders' Memorial in 2028. In addition, this line and Canberra MRT station were the first to use top-up kiosks (TUK) that only allows cashless payments, while GTMs were retained for traditional modes of payment. In addition to the previously announced alignment of the Thomson–East Coast Line, an extension has been proposed to connect it to Changi Airport , with the line passing through Terminal 5 , and eventually absorbing
7150-478: The IAGO waveguide (Informatisation et Automatisation par Guide d'Onde or waveguide transmission line system for computer and automation applications) allows two-way communication between trains and monitors the trains' positions and movements. If a train enters the buffer, the ATP automatically adjusts the train's speed. At least 500 computer systems control the NEL. In case of a glitch, backup systems would take over;
7293-452: The LTA. Since it had to bear the costs of maintenance and manpower, SBS Transit sought compensation from the government for the delay. Except for two stations ( Buangkok and Woodleigh), the NEL began operations on 20 June 2003 and was attended by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong . About 140,000 people rode the line on its opening day. The line's opening ceremony was held on 28 August by Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong . Although
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#17327721398257436-538: The Marina Bay Extension on 14 January 2012. Stage 1 of Downtown line opened on 22 December 2013 with its official opening made on 21 December 2013 by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong . Stage 2 opened on 27 December 2015, after being officially opened on 26 December by Prime Minister Lee. The Tuas West Extension of the East–West Line, consisting of Gul Circle , Tuas Crescent , Tuas West Road , and Tuas Link stations, opened on 18 June 2017. Stage 3,
7579-593: The Marina Line Architectural Design Competition, which was jointly organised by the Land Transport Authority and the Singapore Institute of Architects. The competition did not require any prior architectural experience from competitors and is acknowledged by the industry as one of the most impartial competitions held in Singapore to date. The winner of both stations was WOHA . In 2009, "Best Transport Building"
7722-683: The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) were derived from a forecast by the country's planners back in 1967 which stated the need for a rail-based urban transport system by 1992. In 1972, a study was conducted by the American firms Wilbur Smith and Associates, Parsons Brinckerhoff, Tudor, and Bechtel, which was accounted for by the World Bank on behalf of the United Nations Development Programme . The study
7865-572: The NEL could be completed in 2002 if construction began promptly. It was projected to cost S$ 5 billion (US$ 3.5 billion) and would operate at a loss of S$ 250 million (US$ 176.4 million) during its first four years, with lower daily passenger numbers (240,000). The ministry recommended the construction of the NEL to the Cabinet , citing "wider benefits" such as reduced travelling time and reliance on cars. There's no question about our desire or willingness to bring this extension forward. I believe it's worth
8008-544: The NEL and NSL platforms. All NEL stations have lifts which provide step-free access to their platforms. Most of the lifts have glass doors, which improve appearance and enhance security. Each lift has a communications system, connected to the station's PSC. If a lift stalls during a station blackout, a battery-powered backup system provides lighting and ventilation for four hours. In compliance with Singapore's Code on Barrier-Free Accessibility, NEL stations have wheelchair-friendly facilities. Each station has an entrance that
8151-540: The NEL has been part of the New Rail Financing Framework (NRFF) since 2018. Previously, the operator (the owner of the rail assets) had to bear the cost of maintaining and upgrading trains and signalling. Under the NRFF, the LTA and SBS Transit will share the profits and financial risks in operating the line and the LTA will take control of its operating assets on 1 April 2033. SBS Transit will operate
8294-627: The NEL has experienced a few glitches since its opening, it has been reliable and generally well-received by commuters. The International Association of Public Transport called the NEL a model public-transport system for the future in July 2003, with other driverless systems planned around the world. SBS Transit reported in June 2004 that the line averaged one 15-minute delay every six weeks, compared to expected twice-a-week delays. Average daily ridership has risen to 174,000 in 2004, with highest at 268,000 during Lunar New Year celebrations on 3 January that year. On 17 June 2003, SBS Transit announced that
8437-605: The NEL tunnels and tracks are maintained by a fleet of engineering trains . There are four types of engineering trains: the locomotive, for towing wagons with equipment; the heavy crane vehicle, for changing tracks; the multi-function vehicle, for detecting flaws on rails and in tunnels; and the rail-grinding machine, for grinding rails back into shape. The engineering trains are manufactured by Plasser & Theurer , Speno , and Harsco Rail. A new fleet of engineering trains has been supplied by CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive . The Sengkang Depot , located along Sengkang East Avenue between
8580-415: The NEL would be built earlier to address congestion in the northeast corridor, which would also be relieved by express bus service. The government's announcement during a 19 January parliamentary debate on the report that it had decided to build the NEL "immediately" was greeted with applause. The 16 NEL stations and their locations were announced on 4 March 1996. Many residents and politicians welcomed
8723-536: The NEL, which is powered by an overhead line . The NEL is Singapore's first Art-in-Transit line, with 18 artworks displayed across its 16 stations. The stations are wheelchair-accessible, and most of them are Civil Defence shelters designed to withstand airstrikes and chemical attacks. The Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRTC) first proposed an additional MRT line serving the northeastern areas of Punggol and Jalan Kayu in September 1984. In its preliminary studies,
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#17327721398258866-546: The North–South Line. The extension is expected to be completed by the mid-2030s. Stage 5 from Bedok South to Sungei Bedok is planned to be operational by 2026. The northern terminus of Woodlands North is expected to interchange with the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System for greater connectivity between Johor Bahru and Woodlands , while Founders' Memorial station is an infill station along Stage 4, scheduled to open in tandem with
9009-619: The Operations Control Centre for the Downtown Line Stage 1 until Gali Batu Depot was ready. On 12 October 2012, the first of 11 trains for the line arrived at Jurong Port . It was transported to Kim Chuan Depot to undergo testing by the LTA before it was handed over to SBS Transit . As of 28 February 2013, Bombardier had delivered five of the 11 trains for Downtown line stage 1. LTA together with
9152-474: The Sengkang and Punggol LRT lines above the depot. Its facilities include a four-storey administrative building, maintenance bays, a workshop and an automated warehouse. The depot's workshop has equipment which can raise an entire train for repairs, Singapore's first such workshop. Using the NEL's signalling system, train movement in the depot is mainly automatic. Staff members access the area via three dedicated tunnels for safety reasons. The OCC also controls
9295-469: The Singapore northeast area. Residents around the line were upset by the sudden decision to keep Buangkok station closed, since they had been assured by MPs and grassroots leaders that it would be opened. The government initially stood by SBS Transit's decision to keep the station closed, planning to open it in 2006 when more residential flats would be in the area. The opening was further postponed to 2008, following projected housing-development plans for
9438-422: The Woodlands extension, unlike in the northeast, where the low population meant that the NEL would not be as cost-effective. The four Members of Parliament (MPs) for the northeast called for the line to be built sooner, saying that there would be sufficient demand (given the area's population) and it would relieve traffic congestion. Reviewing the line's feasibility, the Communications Ministry said in 1995 that
9581-435: The Woodleigh and Buangkok stations would not open with the other NEL stations. Due to the lack of development, the operator said keeping the stations closed would reduce operating costs by S$ 2–3 million. At the time, housing demand declined due to the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis and the economic downturn following the September 11 attacks . Consequently, the Housing and Development Board cut back on its development plans in
9724-416: The announcement, since the line was expected to relieve traffic congestion, improve transport in the northeast and stimulate development around the stations. Thirteen civil contracts for track work and construction of the stations, Sengkang Depot and associated tunnels were awarded for a total of S$ 2.8 billion (US$ 1.9 billion). Sixteen more contracts related to electrical and mechanical work were awarded for
9867-487: The area. In August 2005, during a visit by youth minister Vivian Balakrishnan visit to Punggol South, eight white cardboard elephants were put up in protest, and a grass-roots leader was sternly warned after a police investigation into the incident. Following another evaluation by the LTA, SBS Transit announced at the end of 2005 that it would open the station on 15 January 2006. The Buangkok station opened as scheduled "with much fanfare". Since its opening, however,
10010-422: The assets owned by the Land Transport Authority , a statutory board of the Government of Singapore . The network was planned to be constructed and opened in stages, even as plans had already indicated the decision for two main arterial lines. The North–South Line was given priority because it passed through the Central Area that has a high demand for public transport. De Leuw Cather was appointed to undertake
10153-441: The authorities and Stage 2's opening date was brought forward to 27 December 2015. The DTL 3 started operations on 21 October 2017, officially opened by Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan . To serve the line, the Gali Batu Depot was opened in December 2015 to stable 42 trains. It is situated at part of the former Kwong Hou Sua Teochew Cemetery off Woodlands Road. Also in February that year, the Land Transport Authority announced that
10296-462: The automated system. However, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) said in September 2002 that the line might be opened in April 2003 to allow sufficient time for testing. The line's systems were handed over to SBS Transit on 16 December, and the operator conducted further tests. The NEL's opening was delayed until June due to a glitch in the signalling system, however, with tests briefly handed over to
10439-668: The capacity of the depot will be expanded to stable 81 trains by 2019. On 17 January 2013, plans were announced for a southern extension extending from Expo to connect with the Eastern Region line (ERL); the ERL has since been subsumed into the Thomson-East Coast line. The extension was to provide more travel options and enhance connectivity for the residents along the East Coast. The Downtown Line 3 extension (DTL3e)
10582-428: The command centre. Each NEL station is equipped with "energy-smart" Otis escalators connecting its levels. Their speed is reduced by half when not in use, reducing energy consumption and wear and tear. The Woodleigh station has one of the longest sets of escalators at 38.5 metres (126 ft). In addition to escalators, Dhoby Ghaut is the first MRT station with a set of 55-metre (180 ft) travellators which link
10725-455: The construction of the North East line . It began service on 22 December 2013, with its official inauguration made on the day before by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong . Stage 2, first conceptualized and announced as the Bukit Timah line on 23 October 2001, is 16.6 kilometres (10.3 mi) long with 12 stations connecting Bukit Panjang and Rochor stations, including four interchange stations. Construction for Stage 2 began on 3 July 2009 with
10868-442: The current East–West Line at Expo station and the future TEL at Sungei Bedok station . On 7 March 2019, Hume station was announced to be opened by 2025 to better serve Hillview residents. An additional extension to the Downtown Line to Sungei Kadut station from Bukit Panjang station was announced on 25 May 2019 by the LTA. The extension is set to cut down travel time to the downtown area by up to 30 minutes for those living in
11011-418: The deaths of four workers. On 15 November 2017, two trains, one being empty, collided at low speed at Joo Koon station due to a malfunction with the communications-based train control (CBTC). Prior to the 2020 circuit breaker measures during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic , the public transport operators and LTA were criticised by some commuters for its delayed actions of crowd control and
11154-517: The doors and are operational. These doors prevent suicides and unauthorised access to restricted areas. There were a few major incidents in the history of the MRT, which opened in 1987. On 5 August 1993, two trains collided at Clementi station because of an oil spillage on the track, which resulted in 132 injuries. During the construction of the Circle Line on 20 April 2004, a tunnel being constructed under Nicoll Highway collapsed and led to
11297-675: The early network is elevated above ground on concrete viaducts , with a small portion running at-grade; newer lines are largely subterranean, incorporating several of the lengthiest continuous subway tunnel sections in the world. A number of underground stations double as purpose-built air raid shelters under the operational authority of the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF); these stations incorporate deep-level station boxes cast with hardened concrete and blast doors fashioned out of reinforced steel to withstand conventional aerial and chemical ordnance. The origins of
11440-563: The effort. It's worth doing. I believe residents will show their commitment and willingness to help us bring the gap in operating costs. – Mah Bow Tan, engaging with grassroots leaders at the Punggol Community Club on 22 October 1995 Mah, engaging with grassroots leaders in October 1995, said that residents would have to be prepared to pay higher fares on the NEL to cover the line's cost and initial losses. His position
11583-403: The elderly and disabled. A retrofitting programme was completed in 2006, with every station provided with at least one barrier-free access route. Over the years, additional barrier-free facilities have been constructed in stations. Since 2020, newer MRT stations have been fitted with a minimum of two lifts. Operators and authorities have stated that numerous measures had been taken to ensure
11726-484: The enforcement of social distancing on public transport. In response, the LTA rolled out a series of precautionary measures, such as social distancing measures and making the wearing of masks in public transport mandatory. Social distancing markers were progressively implemented in the MRT trains and stations which commuters must adhere to; enforced by auxiliary officers and transport ambassadors. The significant reduction of commuters as remote work increased resulted in
11869-432: The equipment and systems of tunnels, stations, power substations and the depot, which are integrated into one terminal. The systems are managed by four or five rotating teams working around the clock. Alongside a training and software-development room, the OCC has a depot control centre to monitor and supervise its operations. The NEL is fully automatic, using Alstom's Urbalis 300 moving-block signalling system. The NEL
12012-421: The exception of selected periods, such as New Year's Eve , Chinese New Year , Deepavali , Hari Raya , Christmas , eves of public holidays and special occasions such as the state funeral of Lee Kuan Yew (2015), when most of the lines stay open throughout the night or extended till later (before the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020). Additionally, some stretches of the line end earlier, open later and close on
12155-597: The existing Changi Airport branch on the East–West Line . With such an extension, there would be a direct connection between Changi Airport and the city. This extension is expected to start operating by 2040. Tunneling works are tendered out by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) Singapore and Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Corporation was awarded with the tunneling package for Terminal 5. North East MRT line The North East Line ( NEL )
12298-485: The final stage of the Downtown Line, opened on 21 October 2017 with its official opening made on 20 October 2017 by Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan . The second infill station, Canberra station opened on 2 November 2019. Stage 1 of the Thomson–East Coast Line opened on 31 January 2020. Stage 2 of the Thomson–East Coast Line opened on 28 August 2021, extending
12441-493: The first few stages of the North–South and East–West lines that opened between 1987 and 1988 from Yio Chu Kang to Clementi . An exception to this was Orchard , chosen by its designers to be a "showpiece" of the system and built initially with a domed roof. Architectural themes became more important only in subsequent stages, and resulted in such designs as the cylindrical station shapes on all stations between Kallang and Pasir Ris except Eunos , and west of Boon Lay , and
12584-577: The first line operated by SBS Transit, opened on 20 June 2003, is one of the first fully automated heavy rail lines in the world. On 15 January 2006, after intense two-and-a-half years lobbying by the public, Buangkok station was opened, followed by Woodleigh station much later on 20 June 2011. The Boon Lay Extension of the East–West Line, consisting of Pioneer and Joo Koon stations, opened on 28 February 2009. The Circle Line opened in four stages with Stage 3 on 28 May 2009, Stages 1 and 2 on 17 April 2010, Stages 4 and 5 on 8 October 2011 and
12727-428: The first two days of the line completion. The line, with an estimated cost of S$ 12 billion, was considered the government's most ambitious rail project. The cost exceeded those of the Circle Line (at $ 6.7 billion) and the North East Line (at $ 4.6 billion). Final costs of building the line may reach an estimated about S$ 20.7 billion, up more than 70% from the initial estimation, due to sharp rises in construction costs and
12870-535: The future Cross Island Line , and the depot is to be placed at the eastern end of the line. A Singapore Rail Test Centre (formerly known as Integrated Train Testing Centre) with several test tracks for different situations and workshops for maintenance and refurbishment is also to be built at Tuas by 2022, with the main function being to test trains and integrated systems robustly before they are deployed on operational lines. The following table lists
13013-581: The government's intentions for the future of the transport network in Singapore. The latest plan, the Land Transport Master Plan 2040, was announced on 25 May 2019, and provides for line extensions to the Downtown and Thomson–East Coast lines, a new MRT line under study, and 2 new stations on the North–South Line . Hume is an infill station between Hillview and Beauty World and expected to open by 2025. An extension from Expo
13156-400: The government's intentions to greatly expand the system. It called for the expansion of the 67 kilometres of track in 1995 to 360 in 2030. It was expected that daily ridership in 2030 would grow to 6.0 million from the 1.4 million passengers at that time. New lines and extensions are mostly announced as part of the Land Transport Master Plan, which is announced every five years and outlines
13299-421: The high installation costs. Nevertheless, the LTA reversed its decision and made plans to install half-height platform screen doors in all elevated stations on 25 January 2008. The first platform screen doors by ST Electronics were installed at Jurong East , Pasir Ris , and Yishun stations in 2009 under trials to test their feasibility. By 14 March 2012, all elevated stations have been retrofitted with
13442-421: The horizontal integration of the broader public transportation network. The MRT is fully automated and has an extensive driverless rapid transit system . Asset renewal works are periodically carried out to modernise the network and ensure its continued reliability; all stations feature platform screen doors , Wi-Fi connectivity , lifts , climate control , and accessibility provisions, among others. Much of
13585-423: The initial construction of the system. An MRT System Designs Option Study was also conducted to refine the technical details and the recommended measures for the MRT system - these include: Singapore's MRT infrastructure is built, operated, and managed in accordance with a hybridised quasi- nationalised regulatory framework called the New Rail Financing Framework (NRFF), in which the lines are constructed and
13728-643: The inter-modal integration desired by the government. Construction challenges on the line included diverting the Eu Tong Seng canal for construction of the Chinatown station , and avoiding flooding the tunnels and stations while boring tunnels under the Singapore River between the Clarke Quay and Dhoby Ghaut stations. At the Outram Park station, an arched roof of cement-filled steel pipes
13871-505: The introduction of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines connecting with the MRT network. On 6 November 1999, the first LRT trains on the Bukit Panjang LRT went into operation. The Expo and Changi Airport stations were opened on 10 January 2001 and 8 February 2002 respectively. The very first infill station of the MRT network to be built on an existing line, Dover station opened on 18 October 2001. The North East Line ,
14014-418: The length of the station platform. This complements a smaller 40-metre reflective stainless-steel disc overlapping the titanium ellipse and visually floats over a glass elevator shaft and the main entrance. The other station with similar architecture is Dover . Changi Airport station, the easternmost station on the MRT network, has the widest platform in any underground MRT station in Singapore. In 2011, it
14157-418: The line began with a groundbreaking ceremony at Farrer Park station on 25 November 1997. On 20 May 1999, SBS Transit (then Singapore Bus Service) was appointed to operate the line along with the Sengkang and Punggol LRT systems. With bus operations in the area handed over from Trans-Island Bus Services (TIBS) to the newly-appointed operator, SBS controlled northeastern bus and rail service; this provided
14300-423: The line from Woodlands South to Caldecott. Stage 3 of the Thomson–East Coast Line opened on 13 November 2022, extending the line from Caldecott to Gardens by the Bay. On 23 June 2024, the line was extended eastwards terminating at Bayshore. The lines are named based on their directions and/or locations. The names were envisioned to be user-friendly, as shown in a survey in which 70% of the respondents expressed such
14443-532: The line goes in a northeast direction and under the Singapore River. Between the Bencoolen and Jalan Besar stations, the line intersects itself, the first MRT line to do so. After Geylang Bahru station , the line continues in a general eastwards direction, through the industrial areas of Kampong Ubi and Kaki Bukit (briefly paralleling Ubi Avenue 2 and Kaki Bukit Avenue 1), before continuing towards
14586-408: The line in the city would be underground, and the northern portion after Braddell Road would be elevated. The MRTC, which approved the project in October 1986, proposed that the line link to Bishan Depot (which would maintain and service its trains). In February 1991, it was proposed to extend the line to Pulau Tekong via Pulau Ubin to serve future residential and industrial developments in
14729-403: The line under a 15-year licence which will expire on 31 March 2033. As its name implies, the fully-underground 20-kilometre (12-mile) NEL runs from Singapore's city centre to the northeastern parts of the island. The line goes northeast from HarbourFront station, paralleling New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Street in Chinatown between the Outram Park and Clarke Quay stations. Passing under
14872-414: The locomotive could not be moved until heat from its body dissipated. The fire was put out by SCDF and one staff member was conveyed to the hospital for smoke inhalation. Service at the affected stations resumed at 7:26 am after more than an hour since the start of train service. The Downtown line generally goes in an east–west direction from Bukit Panjang in the northwestern side of Singapore, through
15015-508: The long-term plans for these islands. Although the government approved the NEL "in principle" in January 1989, Communications Minister Yeo Ning Hong said that the line's construction was dependent on development in the northeast. The Woodlands extension , which cost S$ 1.35 billion (US$ 0.7 billion), took precedence over the S$ 4.3 billion (US$ 2.4 billion) NEL. According to Yeo's successor, Mah Bow Tan, there were firmer plans for development around
15158-405: The major ones, have additional amenities and services, such as retail shops and kiosks, supermarkets, convenience stores, automatic teller machines, and self-service automated kiosks for a variety of services. Most heavy-duty escalators at stations carry passengers up or down at a rate of 0.75 m/s, which is 50% faster than conventional escalators. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced
15301-550: The network while the inauguration of Boon Lay station on 6 July 1990 marked the completion of the initial system two years ahead of schedule. The MRT has been continuously expanded ever since. On 10 February 1996, a S$ 1.2 billion expansion of the North–South Line into Woodlands was completed, merging the Branch Line into the North–South Line and joining Yishun and Choa Chu Kang stations. The concept of having rail lines that bring people almost directly to their homes led to
15444-417: The network. Underground stations and trains are air-conditioned, while above-ground stations have ceiling fans installed. Every station is equipped with Top Up Kiosk (TUKs), a Passenger Service Centre and LED or plasma displays that show train service information and announcements. All stations are equipped with restrooms and payphones; some restrooms are located at street level. Some stations, especially
15587-505: The northwestern area of Singapore. The extension is expected to be completed by the mid-2030s. A study will also be conducted to determine the stops to be added between the Sungei Kadut and the existing Bukit Panjang stations. A fire occurred on a maintenance locomotive which was carrying out works at Mattar station on 24 May 2024 at around 1:00 am. This resulted in the section between Fort Canning and Mattar stations to be closed as
15730-437: The operations control centre of the respective lines. Trains are equipped with intercoms to allow passengers to communicate with staff during emergencies. SMRT Corporation has six train depots: Bishan Depot is the central maintenance depot for the North–South Line with train overhaul facilities, while Changi Depot and Ulu Pandan Depot inspect and house trains overnight. The newer Tuas Depot , opened in 2017, provides
15873-465: The operator, SBS Transit, conducted the necessary tests to ensure safety standards, functional performance and systems compatibility requirements were met before revenue service began on 22 December 2013. Testing for Stage 2 began on 25 October 2015 and rolling stock that was delivered to Gali Batu Depot commenced service in Stage 1 on 21 October 2015, while SBS Transit slowly moved the equipment managing
16016-538: The perched roofs at Boon Lay, Lakeside , Chinese Garden , Bukit Batok , Bukit Gombak , Choa Chu Kang , Khatib , Yishun , and Eunos stations. Expo station , located on the Changi Airport branch of the East–West Line , is adjacent to the 100,000-square-metre Singapore Expo exhibition facility. Designed by Foster and Partners and completed in January 2001, the station features a large, pillarless, titanium-clad roof in an elliptical shape that sheathes
16159-418: The programme due to financial grounds and concerns of jobs saturation in the construction industry. Dr Goh instead endorsed the idea of an all-bus system recommended by Harvard University specialists, who argued this would reduce the cost by 50% compared to the proposed MRT system. Public opinion was split on the matter: several expressed concerns about the high cost while others were more focused on increasing
16302-412: The rest of the line; Buangkok station opened on 15 January 2006, and Woodleigh station began operations on 20 June 2011. A one-station extension to Punggol Coast station , under construction, is expected to be open on December 10, 2024. The driverless line uses the moving-block Alstom Urbalis 300 CBTC signalling system. Three types of Alstom rolling stock – C751A , C751C and C851E – run on
16445-400: The safety of passengers, and SBS Transit publicised the safety precautions on the driverless North East Line before and after its opening. Safety campaign posters are highly visible in trains and stations, and the operators frequently broadcast safety announcements to passengers and to commuters waiting for trains. Fire safety standards are consistent and equivalent with the guidelines of
16588-597: The signalling system on the MRT is the automatic train control (ATC) system, which in turn is made up of two sub-systems: the automatic train operation (ATO) and automatic train protection (ATP). The ATC has trackside and trainborne components working together to provide safe train separation by using train detection, localisation, and end of authority protection. It also provides safe train operation and movement by using train speed determination, monitoring, over-speed protection and emergency braking. The safety of alighting and departing passengers will also be provided by using
16731-430: The speed of the train to maintain safe braking distance, and initiate emergency braking in the event of overspeed. The MRT also uses an automatic train supervision system to supervise the overall operation of the train service according to a prescribed timetable or train interval. The oldest lines, the North–South Line and East–West Line , were the only lines running with fixed block signalling . The North–South Line
16874-403: The standard of living. Following a debate on whether a bus-only system would be more cost-effective, Communications Minister Ong Teng Cheong came to the conclusion that an all-bus system would be inadequate, as it would have to compete for road space in a land-scarce country. Ong was an architect and town planner by training and through his perseverance and dedication became the main figure behind
17017-419: The station averaged only 1,386 daily riders instead of the expected 6,000. Many residents still traveled to the adjacent Sengkang and Hougang stations due to their amenities. SBS Transit, after saying that it was still "too early to draw a conclusion" about ridership, remained committed to keeping the station open to serve future developments nearby. Woodleigh station, built near the former Bidadari cemetery,
17160-439: The station sites. It was later decided to build these stations in full as it would have been more costly to wait until later to complete the stations from the structural shells. In 1998, the timeline for Punggol station was moved up because of planned housing developments in the area. The decision not to build Sennett station generated political controversy, however, with claims by residents and opposition MP Chiam See Tong that
17303-450: The station would only open if the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) secured the constituency. In 2002, after a revised ridership study, the government decided to open the station with the other NEL stations due to projected developments around the site; the station also received its present name. The NEL was initially expected to be completed by the end of 2002, with SBS staff trained in train maintenance and other technical aspects of
17446-412: The station would open on 10 December 2024. In 2022, the NEL had a daily ridership of 527,000. The line operates between 5:30 am and 12:30 am. On weekdays and Saturdays, the first train leaves Punggol (the northern terminus) at 5:42 am; the last train leaves HarbourFront (the southern terminus) at 11:56 pm. Trains run every 2.5 to 5 minutes, and the line's total travel time
17589-504: The station would open on 20 June 2011. SBS deployed several staff members to assist confused commuters who alighted at Woodleigh station instead of the adjacent Serangoon station . Others alighted to view the station's interior or try an alternative route from the station. On 17 January 2013, transport minister Lui Tuck Yew announced a one-station extension of the NEL to serve upcoming developments in Punggol North. Although it
17732-481: The stations' interior architecture, these works aim to promote the appreciation of public art in high-traffic environments. The artwork for each station is designed to suit the station's identity. Subsequently, all stations on the North East, Circle and Downtown lines have taken part in this programme during their construction, with additional artworks installed at stations on other MRT lines. A key component of
17875-470: The system would "go to sleep" if it experiences a severe malfunction. In the event of system failure, drivers would be deployed to manually operate the trains. The NEL maintains its " mean kilometres between failures " target of one million train-km (620,000 train-miles). As part of an NEL refurbishment programme announced on 17 December 2018, parts of the power and signalling systems were serviced and new rail crossings and tracks installed. Every station has
18018-735: The third line to be entirely underground. It is the second MRT line to be operated by SBS Transit after the North East Line . It also serves as an alternative to the East–West Line where it runs roughly geographically parallel from Bugis to Expo station. Originally planned as three separate lines, the lines merged into the Downtown Line in 2007 and construction began in three stages. Stage 1, from Bugis to Chinatown station opened in December 2013, followed by Stage 2 from Bukit Panjang to Rochor station opened in December 2015. The third and final stage, from Fort Canning to Expo station, opened in October 2017. At 41.9 kilometres (26.0 mi),
18161-492: The transport operators reducing train frequencies and closing stations earlier from 17 April. However, train frequencies were shortly reverted to normal upon review and feedback from the public. Since June 2020, the MRT system has resumed pre-circuit breaker operations. Regulations for social distancing on public transport are no longer applicable by law. Social distancing stickers on seats have been removed. MRT lines operate from 5:30 am to 1:00 am daily, with
18304-406: The tunnels. In 2019, the first-generation trains began undergoing a mid-life refurbishment which is scheduled for completion by the third quarter of 2024. Upgrades include the replacement of interior parts and the installation of a new condition-monitoring system which will monitor train performance. The first refurbished train re-entered service on 28 February 2022. With the passenger trains,
18447-454: The upcoming lines and stations that have been officially announced: The MRT system relied on its two main lines, the North–South and East–West lines, for more than a decade until the opening of the North East Line in 2003. While plans for these lines as well as those currently under construction were formulated long before, the Land Transport Authority's publication of a White Paper titled " A World Class Land Transport System " in 1996 galvanised
18590-531: Was appointed by the MRTC to look into possible routes for the line. In March 1986, the British consultants drew up a tentative route from Outram Park to Punggol. The line would connect to the existing MRT system at Dhoby Ghaut station and pass through Kandang Kerbau and Hougang , paralleling the major Serangoon and Upper Serangoon Roads. A branch line from Hougang to Jalan Kayu was also proposed. The segment of
18733-538: Was awarded to the designers at WOHA Architects at the World Architecture Festival for their design of Bras Basah station. Many MRT stations have specially commissioned artworks in a wide variety of art styles and mediums, including sculptures, murals and mosaics. With over 300 art pieces across 80 stations, it is Singapore's largest public art programme. In the early stages of the MRT, artworks were seldom included; primarily consisting of
18876-486: Was built with barrier-free access via lifts and ramps, in contrast to older stations on previous lines which are being retrofitted. The NEL has the MRT's first tactile system. Consisting of tiles with raised rounded or elongated studs, the system intends to guide visually-impaired commuters through a station on a dedicated route from entrance to platforms. Station seats have armrests to assist those who have difficulty getting up. These accessibility features were part of
19019-418: Was completed on 13 November 2020, transport minister Ong Ye Kung said at the tunnel breakthrough ceremony that the Punggol Coast station's completion would be delayed until 2024 due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic . In June and July 2024, NEL operations began later at 8 am on Sundays to integrate testing and commissioning works with the new station. On 10 October 2024, the LTA announced that
19162-433: Was divisive; some leaders felt that it would be unfair to the residents, and others were confident that residents would be willing "to pay for a better quality of life". Increased fares for the entire network were also suggested, but Mah said that it would be more difficult to implement. He assured leaders that he would recommend construction of the line to the government. A white paper released on 2 January 1996 said that
19305-407: Was finalised and announced on 15 August 2014, in conjunction with the announcement of the Thomson–East Coast line. Two stations, Xilin MRT station and Sungei Bedok MRT station , will be added to the Downtown Line, with Sungei Bedok as an interchange station with the Thomson–East Coast line. It will lengthen the line by 2.2 km (1.4 mi). Expected to be completed in 2026, Stage 3e will connect
19448-567: Was included in the 1991 master plan between HarbourFront and Outram Park, may be built if development warrants it. The NEL's rolling stock has six-car electric multiple unit (EMU) trains, with four doors per side on each carriage, and can accommodate up to 1,920 passengers per trainset. Twenty-five first-generation Alstom Metropolis C751A trains were ordered, built in France by Alstom in 2000 and 2001. An additional 18 second-generation Alstom Metropolis C751C trains, an updated version of
19591-441: Was initially planned to extend the line by 2030, Second Minister for Transport Ng Chee Meng announced on 7 June 2017 that the 1.6-kilometre (0.99-mile) extension would be moved up to 2023 in conjunction with development plans for the area. The contract for the extension was awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation Limited (Singapore Branch) in December, and construction began that month. Although tunneling
19734-587: Was laid underneath the EWL tunnels to minimise movement. Jet-grout arches were used to support the North-South line (NSL) tunnels when explosives were used to remove rock while tunnelling from Clarke Quay to Dhoby Ghaut. Roads around the line had to be temporarily diverted for construction. When the 16 stations were announced, Potong Pasir (then named Sennett), Woodleigh and Punggol were planned to be built as shell stations due to lack of development around
19877-484: Was planned during the 1980s to alleviate traffic congestion on roads leading to the northeast suburbs of the country. However, the project was delayed due to a lack of demand at that time. After the government's decision to eventually go ahead with the project at an estimated cost of S$ 5 billion, its alignment and stations were finalised in 1996 and construction began the year after. The line began operations on 20 June 2003. Two mid-line stations initially did not open with
20020-477: Was rated 10 out of 15 most beautiful subway stops in the world by BootsnAll. Various features have been incorporated into the design to make the station aesthetically pleasing to travellers. The station is designed by architectural firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill , featuring a large interior space and an illuminated 150-metre (490 ft) link bridge spanning over the island platform. Two Circle Line stations— Bras Basah and Stadium —were commissioned through
20163-399: Was scheduled to open seven or eight years after the rest of the line. In January 2011, The Straits Times reported that preparations for the station's opening had been ongoing since the second half of 2010; the newspaper speculated that the station would open in mid-2011 to serve new developments in the area. In a March parliamentary session, Transport Minister Raymond Lim confirmed that
20306-460: Was undertaken for eight years, including the phases of the study in 1974 and 1977. In 1979, to prepare the third phase of the study, Halcrow , a British firm, was appointed to craft the system; meanwhile, a third phase of the study was published in 1981. However, opposition from the government on the feasibility of the MRT from prominent ministers, among them Finance Minister Goh Keng Swee and Trades and Industry Minister Tony Tan , nearly shuttered
20449-577: Was upgraded to moving block / CBTC in 2017, and the East–West line upgraded in 2018. As of 27 May 2018, all MRT lines use the CBTC/moving block system in normal daily operations and from 2 January 2019, the old signalling system ceased operations. In comparison to the original fixed block system, the CBTC can reduce train intervals from 120 seconds to 100 seconds, allowing for a 20% increase in capacity and
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