Did you know Singapore is currently building its longest underground MRT line? The Cross Island Line (CRL) is set to revolutionise the public transport landscape in Singapore. The ambitious project is designed to be a fully underground, high-capacity MRT line, stretching more than 50 kilometres across the island. Plus, it will be the country’s eight MRT line.
The Cross Island Line is a new era for the city-state’s public transport serving as a vital east-west connection, enhancing travel between Changi and Jurong Industrial Estate with eight interchange stations, while providing an alternative route to the existing East-West and Downtown Lines. Here’s what we know about the longest fully underground MRT line launching in Singapore:
Longest underground MRT line – Singapore
Construction of the Cross Island Line is currently underway and Phase 1 is expected to be completed by 2030. According to LTA, the first phase spans 29 kilometres and includes 12 stations from Aviation Park to Bright Hill, interchanging with other MRT lines at key locations like Pasir Ris and Ang Mo Kio. In the following years, Phase 2 and Phase 3 of Singapore’s longest underground MRT line will be completed. Although, the line may not be fully operational until 2040s.
Interestingly, the new MRT line will feature a fully automated and driverless operation system and half of its stations will serve as interchanges to existing lines. Consequently, this will ensure reliability and enhance connectivity across the island. Plus, it will provide commuters with more flexible travel options. Additionally, the new line provides economic benefits with easy connection to major hubs like Jurong Lake District and Punggol Digital District.
Indeed, the Cross Island Line will be the longest fully underground MRT line in Singapore once fully operational. At present, the Downtown Line is the longest MRT line in Singapore, stretching approximately 41.9 kilometres, but will be extended to 45 kilometres by 2026. Meanwhile, the East-West Line from Tuas Link to Pasir Ris, measuring around 57km, is the longest train line in Singapore.
The Cross Island Line is projected to host more than one million passengers daily. Certainly, these projections make it a critical component of Singapore’s public transport network for decades to come.
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