The Downtown Line (DTL) is without a doubt one of our favourite MRT lines – it’s clean, relatively new, and arguably one of the fastest lines. What’s more, it’s up for an extension soon, with new stations opening as early as the end of 2026. This means that travel times for commuters living in applicable areas are expected to shorten by up to 20 minutes.

Here’s everything we know so far about the DTL extension:

When will the DTL extension be complete?

Image credit: LTA

The DTL extensions will be under construction from 2026 to 2035, with stations opening up from the second half of this year. There are 2 main parts to this extension – DTL2e, in the West region, and DTL3e, in the East region of SG.

Who will benefit most from the DTL extension?

Those staying in the north-western and eastern regions of SG will benefit most from the DTL2e and DTL3e respectively.

What are the new stations on the DTL extension?

New stations on the DTL2e.
Image adapted from: LTA

DTL2e comprises 3 new stations that’re set to be ready by 2035: DE1, located after Bukit Panjang station and along Sungei Kadut Avenue; DE2, an underground interchange station between Yew Tee and Kranji; and NS6, an aboveground station on the red line connected to DE2.

Artist’s impression of DE1 & DE2.
Image adapted from: LTA

Basically, you’re in luck if you live in the Yew Tee and Sungei Kadut area. Thanks to the DTL2e, commuters will more easily be able to access places like the upcoming Sungei Kadut Eco-District and Rail Corridor.

Plus, getting to town will be a whole lot quicker for north-westies too – with the new interchange station, travel time from Yew Tee to Chinatown is expected to shorten by up to 20 minutes.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect from DTL2e:

On the other hand, DTL3e will be ready a lot sooner, by the end of 2026. DTL3e comprises 2 new stations: Xilin and Sungei Bedok.

New stations on the DTL3e.
Image adapted from: LTA

Some things for Easties to anticipate include quicker trips to town, shortened travel time between areas like Marine Parade and Tampines, and easier access to Changi Business Park and Expo. Sungei Bedok station will also be an interchange station on the DTL and Thomson-East Coast Line.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Expect quicker travel times with the new DTL extension

With stations on the DTL extension opening as early as the second half of this year, we’ll be anticipating swifter commutes from the East and West regions to town. P.S. This is just one of the many MRT upgrades we’re expecting in the near future; read our guides on the upcoming CRL and CCL6 stations opening soon.

Find out more about the DTL extension here

More MRT guides:

• How to get discounted MRT rides
• Tips for MRT breakdowns
• MRT hacks

Cover image adapted from: LTA