A comprehensive overview of the growth and future of Singapore’s MRT network as it expands to eight lines by 2030.
SINGAPORE: From a mere five stations in 1987 to eight lines by 2030, Singapore’s rail network is set to enhance travel times and convenience for most commuters.
Construction of the Cross Island Line began on January 18 and is expected to be completed by 2030, with Phase 1 comprising 12 stations and a total of at least 30 stations planned. Transport Minister S Iswaran noted that once fully operational, about eight in 10 households will be within a 10-minute walk of a train station.
CNA examines the evolution of Singapore’s MRT network through the years.
NORTH-SOUTH LINE
The North-South Line (NSL), Singapore’s first MRT line, opened in 1987 with five stations connecting Yio Chu Kang to Toa Payoh. Today, it spans 45km and serves 27 stations from Jurong East to Marina South Pier, featuring eight interchanges that allow transfers to the East-West Line, Circle Line, Downtown Line, North East Line, and Bukit Panjang LRT.
Recent years have seen the addition of stations such as Marina South Pier in 2014 and Canberra in 2019. As Singapore’s oldest train line, it is currently undergoing upgrades to meet travel demands, with three out of six core systems replaced since renewal works began in 2012.
EAST-WEST LINE
Originally part of the NSL, the East-West Line (EWL) is Singapore’s longest at approximately 57km, connecting 35 stations from Tuas West to Changi Airport. The line is crucial for students and professionals in the central business district, with notable stations including Raffles Place and Outram Park.
The EWL is also undergoing core system renewals, which are expected to be completed this year.
CROSS ISLAND LINE
Set to open in 2030, the Cross Island Line (CRL) will be Singapore’s eighth and longest fully underground train line at over 50km. It aims to facilitate quick travel for residents, with daily ridership anticipated to reach 600,000 upon opening and eventually exceeding 1 million. The CRL will provide connections to major hubs like the Jurong Lake District and Punggol Digital District, featuring the highest number of interchange stations in Singapore.
Recreational spaces will become more accessible via public transport, enhancing family outings and exercise routines.
JURONG REGION LINE
The Jurong Region Line, expected to be completed in 2029, will consist of 24 stations over 24km. Serving key areas such as Choa Chu Kang and Jurong East, it will be Singapore’s first fully elevated MRT line. Construction, which began on January 13, faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The line will utilize customized carriages to navigate tight curves and built-up areas, ensuring greater accessibility for commuters with mobility challenges.
THOMSON-EAST COAST LINE
The Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL), which opened Stage 3 stations in late 2022, connects the eastern and northern parts of Singapore and will be fully completed by 2025. With 32 stations over 43km, the TEL features fully automated four-car trains with enhanced boarding accessibility.
Construction innovations include the first use of a retractable micro-tunnel boring machine and an ice wall for stabilizing the earth during tunneling.
NORTH-EAST LINE
The North-East Line (NEL), comprising 16 stations, was the first to be fully automated and driverless in Singapore. It features significant artworks at stations through the Art-in-Transit programme and accommodates accessibility needs with multiple lifts.
CIRCLE LINE
Despite its name, the Circle Line (CCL) is not yet a complete circle. Fully automated and driverless, the 30-station CCL connects existing lines and faces unique construction challenges, such as varying soil conditions and existing utilities. An extension planned for 2026 will complete the circle, linking areas in the west to the Central Business District.
DOWNTOWN LINE
Measuring 42km and covering 36 stations, the Downtown Line (DTL) is Singapore’s longest underground and driverless MRT line. It includes remarkable construction feats, such as diverting the Singapore River to build connections between stations.
The DTL will improve accessibility to areas like Changi Business Park and the Expo area with future extensions.
As Singapore’s MRT network continues to grow, these expansions aim to enhance the transport system, making it more sustainable, accessible, and resilient for future generations.
