Singapore’s highly-anticipated North South Corridor project is facing another significant setback. Authorities have announced a two-year delay to its completion. Originally slated to open in stages from 2027, the 21.5km multi-model transport link will now see its 8.8km elevated viaduct section (stretching from Admiralty Road West to Lentor Avenue) open in phases starting in 2029. Meanwhile, the 12.3km underground tunnel connecting Lentor Avenue to East Coast Parkway is projected to open progressively from 2031. In fact, Land Transport Authority (LTA) confirmed the adjusted timeline is necessary to ensure safety amidst unforeseen subterranean challenges. Here’s what we know.
North South Corridor Singapore updates
The primary culprits behind the revised Singapore North South Corridor construction schedule are unexpectedly difficult ground conditions and complex engineering hurdles, particularly around the Novena and Thomson areas.
Near Novena, the corridor’s tunnels intersect directly with the existing North-South Line MRT tunnels in a highly constrained space. During excavation, engineers encountered varying rock profiles, massive boulders, and unexpected groundwater inflows—so they had to abandon direct tunnelling to prevent further issues.
For residents and business owners situated along the route, the delay translates to an extended period of noise, dust, and disrupted foot traffic. Food and beverage operators near the Novena worksites have reported drastic drops in sales (some up to 75 percent) due to obscured storefront visibility and blocked access. Plus, some establishments have been forced to close.
Meanwhile, LTA aims to progressively reinstate roads and public spaces along less complex stretches starting in 2028, offering some relief to affected communities before the official opening.
Despite the frustrations and a projected cost that currently involves around $7.4 billion in awarded contracts, the infrastructure project remains a crucial piece of the city-state’s urban development.
Once fully operational, the North South Corridor Singapore will fundamentally transform the country’s transport axis by alleviating heavy vehicular traffic while prioritizing active mobility through dedicated bus lanes, cycling trunk routes, and pedestrian paths.
