From December 7 to December 10, there will be a temporary suspension of train services on the East-West Line (EWL) between Tanah Merah and Tampines stations due to essential works aimed at connecting tracks from the existing EWL to the upcoming East Coast Integrated Depot (ECID). The depot is slated to open in 2016, and these enhancements are crucial for accommodating expanding transport needs. To ensure continued mobility for commuters during this disruption, specific shuttle train services will operate with varied frequencies along different segments of the EWL.
Shuttle trains will be available to facilitate travel for commuters affected by this service interruption. The trains will run every five minutes between Tampines and Pasir Ris stations, providing a frequent option for those needing to traverse this stretch. For journeys between Tanah Merah and Expo stations, services will be available every eight minutes, while connections from Expo to Changi Airport will operate every eleven minutes. These arrangements are designed to alleviate potential congestion and maintain overall travel fluidity despite the suspension of regular train services.
In addition to the shuttle trains, the service will also implement adjustments to maintain peak hour efficiency. Specifically, trains traveling towards Tanah Merah will terminate at Paya Lebar station during morning and evening peak hours on December 9 and 10. This strategic move aims to preserve frequency during periods of high commuter demand, thus minimizing inconvenience for passengers who rely on consistent service during busy travel times. Commuters are encouraged to pay close attention to platform display panels that will provide real-time information regarding train service adjustments and end points.
For individuals needing to travel to and from Simei station, the transport authorities have coordinated a shuttle bus service, known as Shuttle 7. This service will link Tampines, Simei, and Tanah Merah stations, operating at a frequency of every three to five minutes from the first train until the last train. This additional shuttle bus option is essential for ensuring that commuters can reach their destinations with minimal delays, particularly during the periods of extended train service disruption on the EWL.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and SMRT have taken proactive steps to communicate this upcoming service disruption and its implications to commuters. In their joint media release, they advised all travelers to stay informed on the latest updates through various channels, including the LTA’s MyTransport.SG mobile application and social media platforms associated with LTA and SMRT. Such measures are intended to keep commuters well-informed and prepared for any changes in their travel plans during this period.
Overall, the planned disruption on the East-West Line is a necessary initiative for integrating new infrastructure to enhance the efficiency and capacity of Singapore’s public transport system. By providing shuttle train services and supplementary bus options, the LTA and SMRT aim to mitigate the impact of these works on everyday commuters, ensuring that public transportation remains as accessible and reliable as possible during this critical phase of development.
