From December 7 to December 10, 2024, the East-West Line (EWL) of Singapore’s MRT will experience a temporary suspension of services between Tanah Merah and Tampines stations. This disruption is necessary to facilitate essential track works, as announced by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and SMRT in a joint statement on November 5.
During this four-day period, a shuttle bus service will be operational, connecting Tampines, Simei, and Tanah Merah MRT stations. The shuttle, designated as Shuttle 7, will run from the first train until the last, with a frequency of every 3 to 5 minutes. Commuters using this service will be charged fares consistent with the existing MRT fare structure.
In addition to the direct impact on the Tanah Merah to Tampines segment, train services at three nearby stations will also be affected. Specifically, the closure will disrupt the usual operations between Tampines and Pasir Ris, as well as between Tanah Merah and Changi Airport. For instance, eastbound trains from Tanah Merah to Pasir Ris typically reverse direction to provide westbound service, but this will not be possible during the closure. Consequently, shuttle trains will be deployed to operate between Tampines and Pasir Ris, Tanah Merah and Expo, and Expo and Changi Airport, with intervals ranging from five to eleven minutes.
The track works are part of a larger project to connect the EWL to the upcoming East Coast Integrated Depot (ECID), which is expected to commence operations in 2026. The construction will involve the removal of approximately 80 meters of existing tracks, sleepers, and third rail, followed by the installation of new tracks and power cables. Comprehensive testing of the signaling, power, and communication systems will also be conducted to ensure safety and reliability.
LTA has emphasized that all preparatory work has been completed to minimize the duration of the service disruption. Station staff will be present at the affected locations to assist commuters during this period, and travelers are encouraged to consider alternative routes via other MRT lines to avoid congestion.
Looking ahead, further adjustments to train services will be necessary in 2025 and 2026 as additional installation works for the ECID are carried out. The agencies have committed to careful planning to reduce the impact on commuters and will provide timely updates regarding any future service changes.
This initiative aims to enhance the resilience and capacity of Singapore’s rail network, ultimately improving service reliability for all commuters.