Singapore Mass Rapid Transit

Singapore Mass Rapid Transit
Name	Mass Rapid Transit
Locale	Singapore
Transit type	Rapid transit
Lines	6 (operational)
Stations	134
Ridership	3.4 million (daily average, 2023)
Began operation	7 November 1987
Operator	SMRT Trains, SBS Transit
System length	230 km
Track gauge	sg
El	1,500 V DC overhead line

Singapore Mass Rapid Transit. The Mass Rapid Transit is a major rapid transit system and a cornerstone of Singapore's public transport network. Operated by SMRT Trains and SBS Transit, it serves millions of commuters daily across a comprehensive island-wide network. Since its opening in 1987, the system has been integral to supporting the nation's urban development and economic growth.

History

The concept for a heavy rail rapid transit system was first studied in the late 1960s by the Singapore government, with a final recommendation made in 1982. The initial system, constructed by the Mass Rapid Transit Corporation, opened on 7 November 1987 with a section of the North South MRT line between Yio Chu Kang and Toa Payoh. This was followed by the completion of the East West MRT line and extensions into the Central Area, including the pivotal City Hall interchange. Subsequent decades saw significant expansion, including the opening of the North East MRT line operated by SBS Transit in 2003, the Circle MRT line in 2009, and the Downtown MRT line in stages from 2013. Major incidents, such as the 2011 Singapore MRT disruption, led to systemic reviews and the formation of the Land Transport Authority's Rail Reliability Panel.

Network

The network comprises six operational lines: the North South MRT line, East West MRT line, North East MRT line, Circle MRT line, Downtown MRT line, and the Thomson–East Coast MRT line. It spans over 230 kilometres, connecting key urban centres like the Central Business District, Marina Bay, Jurong, Woodlands, and Tampines. The system features important interchange stations such as Raffles Place, Dhoby Ghaut, and Jurong East, which facilitate seamless travel across the island. The network also integrates with the Light Rail Transit system and bus services managed by SBS Transit and SMRT Buses.

Operations

Daily operations are managed by two licensed operators: SMRT Trains runs the North South MRT line, East West MRT line, Circle MRT line, and the Thomson–East Coast MRT line, while SBS Transit operates the North East MRT line and the Downtown MRT line. Train frequencies can reach as high as under two minutes during peak periods on core lines. The system operates from approximately 5:30 am to around 1:00 am daily, with extended hours during festive periods like New Year's Eve. Safety and security are overseen by the Land Transport Authority and involve personnel from the Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force.

Infrastructure

The system utilizes a combination of elevated, at-grade, and underground sections, with extensive tunnelling through the dense Central Area. Depots for train maintenance and stabling are located at Bishan Depot, Ulu Pandan Depot, Changi Depot, Kim Chuan Depot, and Gali Batu Depot. The network is powered by a 1,500 V DC overhead line system and runs on standard gauge track. Significant engineering projects include the Marina Bay station cavern and the underwater tunnel crossing the Singapore Strait to link with Jurong Island. Rolling stock includes fleets from manufacturers like Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Siemens Mobility.

Fares and ticketing

Fares are regulated by the Public Transport Council and are calculated based on distance travelled, with concessions available for students, seniors, and persons with disabilities. The system uses a contactless electronic fare system, with the EZ-Link card and NETS-enabled bank cards being the primary payment methods. Single-trip tickets are also available for tourists and occasional riders. Integration with the Land Transport Authority's Account-Based Ticketing system allows for seamless transfers between the MRT, LRT, and public bus services operated by SBS Transit and SMRT Buses.

Future developments

The network is undergoing continual expansion under the Land Transport Authority's Land Transport Master Plan. The Jurong Region MRT line and the Cross Island MRT line are currently under construction, with phases scheduled to open from the late 2020s onwards. Further extensions of the Thomson–East Coast MRT line to Sungei Bedok and the Circle MRT line to complete its orbital route are also planned. These projects aim to enhance connectivity to developing areas like Tengah and the Greater Southern Waterfront. Long-term plans also include studying potential new lines to further increase network density and resilience.

Category:Rapid transit in Singapore Category:Railway companies of Singapore Category:1987 establishments in Singapore