East-West Line service adjustments

If you’ve not heard, train services will be disrupted along the East portion of the East-West Line from 7th-10th December 2024. No, it’s not another train breakdown, but the laying of new tracks to connect the EWL to the new East Coast Integrated Depot.

Thankfully, we can pre-empt and make necessary adjustments this time. So, for all affected Easties, here are some preparations and alternatives for a smooth commute to and fro work or school.

What to know about the EWL Service Adjustments

Image credit: Land Transport Authority via Facebook

If you live along the East portion of the line, you would probably already know of the service adjustments happening from 7th-10th December. But, for the uninitiated or peeps living in other parts of the island, now might be a good time to note the train disruptions expected between Tanah Merah and Pasir Ris MRT stations as well as the stations towards Changi Airport.

Will the rest of the EWL be affected?

Thankfully for Westies, we won’t have to endure the horror of the EW line train disruptions again. Rest assured that operations along the rest of the East-West line are normal.

Affected MRT stations during this period are Tanah Merah, Simei, Tampines, Pasir Ris, Expo, and Changi Airport.

How much longer travelling time do I need?

Just to be safe, we’d factor in at least 20-30 minutes extra travelling time while planning your journey. Tough, I know, but half of the disruption is happening over the weekends, so it’s really only 2 working days that’ll require you to set your alarms just a wee bit earlier.

Utilise the shuttle services provided

Shuttle buses

Image credit: Land Transport Authority via Facebook

Shuttle 7 will be the main bus service between Tanah Merah and Tampines stations. The buses will operate at frequencies of every 3 to 5 minutes, and hours will follow the first and last train times of the East-West Line.

Shuttle trains

Image credit: SMRT Corporation

If you’re going to be taking the trains per normal, there’s also shuttle train services available. The stations and frequencies are:

Train frequencies on the Downtown Line will also be increasing during the disruptions.

Are the shuttle services free?

Unfortunately, shuttle services are not free to the public this time around. Fares for the shuttle buses will be the same as regular train fares, while the rates for shuttle trains will remain the same.

Best alternative routes to take

We’ll definitely be expecting some level of crowd at the affected stations. Consider changing your routes, especially if your destination is also accessible via other MRT lines. Some options are:

Pasir Ris to City Hall via the Downtown and Circle Lines.

Getting to Changi Airport via the Downtown Line.

Simei to Serangoon via Downtown and Circle Lines.

Commuting during the EW line train service adjustments

Let’s not get too stressed over the MRT disruptions. As long as you make the necessary adjustments and factor in extra time, things should be A-OK. We hope that you’ll be able to plan your journey in advance with this guide. Do visit LTA’s website for more information and updates.

For other fun transport reads:

• “Bus hotel” in Changi Village
• KTM shuttle guide
• MRT hacks

Cover image adapted from: SMRT Corporation