In a significant development for Singapore’s public transport system, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has announced that SMRT will be fined S$3 million due to a six-day disruption on the East-West Line (EWL) that occurred in late September 2024. This incident, which affected approximately 2.6 million passengers, is considered one of the most severe disruptions in the history of the MRT system.
Overview of the Disruption
The disruption took place from September 25 to 30, 2024, halting train services between Jurong East and Buona Vista stations. This interruption not only inconvenienced daily commuters but also impacted students who were preparing for their Primary School Leaving Examinations (PSLE) during that period. The LTA initiated a comprehensive investigation into the causes and management of the disruption shortly after it occurred.
Investigation Findings
Following a thorough inquiry, the LTA determined that the disruption was caused by a “rare” and “catastrophic” mechanical failure. In a statement released on June 3, 2025, the LTA outlined the factors that influenced the decision to impose the fine. Notably, SMRT had already incurred costs exceeding S$10 million to manage the situation, which included extensive repairs to the affected tracks and equipment, as well as providing free bus services to assist stranded passengers.
SMRT’s Response and Management
Despite the significant disruption, the LTA acknowledged that SMRT’s response was satisfactory. The company promptly activated free bus services and effectively limited the disruption to the specific area between Jurong East and Buona Vista stations once it was deemed safe to do so. In light of these efforts, the LTA decided to impose a fine that would contribute to the Public Transport Fund, aimed at assisting lower-income families with their public transport fares.
In their official statement, SMRT reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency across their network. The company expressed its dedication to learning from this incident to prevent future occurrences.
Conclusion
The S$3 million fine serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability in public transport operations. As Singapore continues to enhance its public transport infrastructure, incidents like this highlight the need for robust safety measures and effective crisis management strategies. The LTA’s decision to impose a penalty reflects a commitment to ensuring that public transport providers uphold their responsibilities to passengers, ultimately fostering a safer and more reliable commuting experience for all.
As discussions around public transport efficiency and safety continue, it is crucial for both authorities and service providers to work collaboratively to enhance the resilience of Singapore’s transport systems.