North East Line
Template:Short description Template:For Template:Featured article Template:Infobox rail line
The North East Line (NEL) is a high-capacity Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line in Singapore. Operated by SBS Transit, the Template:Convert line is the MRT's shortest.Template:Efn It runs from HarbourFront station in southern Singapore to Punggol Coast station in the northeast, serving 17 stations via Chinatown, Little India, Serangoon and Hougang. Coloured purple on official maps, it is Singapore's third MRT line and the world's first fully-automated underground driverless heavy rail line.
The NEL was planned during the 1980s to alleviate traffic congestion on roads leading to the northeast suburbs of the country. However, the project was delayed due to a lack of demand at that time. After the government's decision to go ahead with the project at an estimated cost of Template:Currency, its alignment and stations were finalised in 1996 and construction began the year after. The line began operations on 20 June 2003. Two mid-line stations initially did not open with the rest of the line; Buangkok station opened on 15 January 2006, and Woodleigh station began operations on 20 June 2011. A one-station extension to Punggol Coast station opened on 10 December 2024.
The driverless line uses the moving-block Alstom Urbalis 300 CBTC signalling system. Three types of Alstom rolling stock – C751A, C751C and C851E – run on the NEL, which is powered by an overhead line. The NEL is Singapore's first Art-in-Transit line, with 19 artworks displayed across its 17 stations. The stations are wheelchair-accessible, and most of them are Civil Defence shelters designed to withstand airstrikes and chemical attacks.
History
Template:AnchorPlanning
The Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRTC) first proposed an additional MRT line serving the northeastern areas of Punggol and Jalan Kayu in September 1984.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> In its preliminary studies, the Communications Ministry concluded that existing roads would be inadequate for projected traffic into housing estates set to be built in the 21st century. To minimise the impact on other development, the Ministry developed plans to determine which parcels of land would be needed for the new MRT project.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> In December of that year, a British consultancy team consisting of Sir William Halcrow and Partners, Merz & McLellan and London Transport International was appointed by the MRTC to look into possible routes for the line.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref>
In March 1986, the British consultants drew up a tentative route from Outram Park to Punggol. The line would connect to the existing MRT system at Dhoby Ghaut station and pass through Kandang Kerbau and Hougang, paralleling the major Serangoon and Upper Serangoon Roads. A branch line from Hougang to Jalan Kayu was also proposed. The segment of the line in the city would be underground, and the northern portion after Braddell Road would be elevated.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref>
The MRTC, which approved the project in October 1986,<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> proposed that the line link to Bishan Depot (which would maintain and service its trains).<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> In February 1991, a proposal was made to extend the line to Pulau Tekong via Pulau Ubin to serve future residential and industrial developments in the long-term plans for these islands.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref>
Template:AnchorDelay
Although the government approved the NEL "in principle" in January 1989, Communications Minister Yeo Ning Hong said that the line's construction was dependent on development in the northeast.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> The Woodlands extension,Template:Efn which cost S$1.35 billion (US$Template:ToUSD billion), took precedence over the S$4.3 billion (US$Template:ToUSD billion) NEL. According to Yeo's successor, Mah Bow Tan, there were firmer plans for development around the Woodlands extension,<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> unlike in the northeast, where the low population meant that the NEL would not be as cost-effective.<ref name="on the horizon">Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> The four Members of Parliament (MPs) for the northeast called for the line to be built sooner, saying that there would be sufficient demand (given the area's population) and it would relieve traffic congestion.<ref name="on the horizon" />
Reviewing the line's feasibility,<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> the Communications Ministry said in 1995 that the NEL could be completed in 2002 if construction began promptly. It was projected to cost S$5 billion (US$Template:ToUSD billion) and would operate at a loss of S$250 million (US$Template:ToUSD million) during its first four years, with lower daily passenger numbers (240,000). The ministry recommended the construction of the NEL to the Cabinet, citing "wider benefits" such as reduced travelling time and reliance on cars.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> Template:Quote box Mah, engaging with grassroots leaders in October 1995, said that residents would have to be prepared to pay higher fares on the NEL to cover the line's cost and initial losses. His position was divisive; some leaders felt that it would be unfair to the residents, and others were confident that residents would be willing "to pay for a better quality of life". Increased fares for the entire network were also suggested, but Mah said that it would be more difficult to implement. He assured leaders that he would recommend construction of the line to the government.<ref name="speed up">Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref>
A white paper released on 2 January 1996 said that the NEL would be built earlier to address congestion in the northeast corridor, which would also be relieved by express bus service.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite book</ref> The government's announcement during a 19 January parliamentary debate on the report that it had decided to build the NEL "immediately" was greeted with applause.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Template:Clear left
Construction and opening
| Date | Project | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 20 June 2003 | North East Line | HarbourFront – Punggol (14 stations) |
| 15 January 2006 | Opening of Buangkok station | |
| 20 June 2011 | Opening of Woodleigh station | |
| 10 December 2024 | North East Line Extension | Punggol – Punggol Coast (1 station) |
The 16 NEL stations and their locations were announced on 4 March 1996.<ref name="16 stations">Template:Cite news</ref> Many residents and politicians welcomed the announcement, since the line was expected to relieve traffic congestion, improve transport in the northeast and stimulate development around the stations.<ref name="happy">Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> Thirteen civil contracts for track work and construction of the stations, Sengkang Depot and associated tunnels were awarded for a total of S$2.8 billion (US$Template:ToUSD billion). Sixteen more contracts related to electrical and mechanical work were awarded for a total of S$1 billion (US$Template:ToUSD billion).<ref name="NEL 2004">Template:Cite web</ref>
To construct the line, Template:Convert of private land was acquired and Template:Convert of government land was returned to the state.<ref name="16 stations" /> Several rental HDB blocks, private homes and shops were acquired,Template:Sfn dismaying many affected residents.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> Those who had been asked to relocate in July 1996 requested more time to find new premises.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Construction of the line began with a groundbreaking ceremony at Farrer Park station on 25 November 1997.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> On 20 May 1999, SBS Transit (then Singapore Bus Service) was appointed to operate the line along with the Sengkang and Punggol LRT system.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref name="NAS NEL appointment">Template:Cite web</ref> Parsons Brinckerhoff (through PB Merz and McLellan; now WSJ USA) was appointed to be the consultant for the line's engineering and design.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite book</ref>
Construction challenges on the line included diverting the Eu Tong Seng canal for construction of the Chinatown station,Template:Sfn<ref name="back on track">Template:Cite news</ref> and avoiding flooding the tunnels and stations while boring tunnels under the Singapore River between the Clarke Quay and Dhoby Ghaut stations.Template:Sfn At the Outram Park station, an arched roof of cement-filled steel pipes was laid underneath the EWL tunnels to minimise movement.Template:Sfn Jet-grout arches were used to support the North–South Line (NSL) tunnels when explosives were used to remove rock while tunnelling from Clarke Quay to Dhoby Ghaut.Template:Sfn Roads around the line had to be temporarily diverted for construction.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
When the 16 stations were announced, Potong Pasir (then named Sennett), Woodleigh and Punggol were planned to be built as shell stations due to lack of development around the station sites.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> It was later decided to build these stations in full as it would have been more costly to wait until later to complete the stations from the structural shells.Template:Sfn In 1998, the timeline for Punggol station was moved up because of planned housing developments in the area.Template:Sfn<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The decision not to build Sennett station generated political controversy, however, with claims by residents and opposition MP Chiam See Tong that the station would only open if the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) secured the constituency.<ref name="names 2 views">Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In 2002, after a revised ridership study, the government decided to open the station with the other NEL stations due to projected developments around the site; the station also received its present name.<ref name="To stop at Potong Pasir">Template:Cite news</ref>
The NEL was initially expected to be completed by the end of 2002,<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> with SBS staff trained in train maintenance and other technical aspects of the automated system.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> However, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) said in September 2002 that the line might be opened in April 2003 to allow sufficient time for testing.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The line's systems were handed over to SBS Transit on 16 December, and the operator conducted further tests.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The NEL's opening was delayed until June due to a glitch in the signalling system, however, with tests briefly handed over to the LTA.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Since it had to bear the costs of maintenance and manpower, SBS Transit sought compensation from the government for the delay.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Except for two stations (Buangkok and Woodleigh),<ref name="Two wouldnt open">Template:Cite news</ref> the NEL began operations on 20 June 2003.<ref name="NEL opens">Template:Cite web</ref> About 140,000 people rode the line on its opening day.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong visited the NEL on 28 June 2003 and travelled between Sengkang and Chinatown station.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The line's opening ceremony was held on 28 August by Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.<ref name="official opening">Template:Cite web</ref> Although the NEL has experienced a few glitches since its opening, it has been reliable and generally well-received by commuters.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The International Association of Public Transport called the NEL a model public-transport system for the future in July 2003, with other driverless systems planned around the world.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> SBS Transit reported in June 2004 that the line averaged one 15-minute delay every six weeks, compared to expected twice-a-week delays.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Average daily ridership has risen to 174,000 in 2004, with highest at 268,000 during Lunar New Year celebrations on 3 January that year.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Opening of reserved stations
On 17 June 2003, SBS Transit announced that the Woodleigh and Buangkok stations would not open with the other NEL stations. Due to the lack of development, the operator said keeping the stations closed would reduce operating costs by S$2–3 million.<ref name="Two wouldnt open"/> At the time, housing demand declined due to the 1997 Asian financial crisis and the economic downturn following the September 11 attacks. Consequently, the Housing and Development Board cut back on its development plans in the Singapore northeast area.<ref name="p433">Template:Cite book</ref> Residents around the line were upset by the sudden decision to keep Buangkok station closed, since they had been assured by MPs and grassroots leaders that it would be opened.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref name="in three years">Template:Cite news</ref>
The government initially stood by SBS Transit's decision to keep the station closed, planning to open it in 2006 when more residential flats would be in the area.<ref name="official opening"/><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The opening was further postponed to 2008, following projected housing-development plans for the area.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In August 2005, during a visit by youth minister Vivian Balakrishnan visit to Punggol South, eight white cardboard elephants were put up in protest,<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> and a grass-roots leader was sternly warned after a police investigation into the incident.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Following another evaluation by the LTA,<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> SBS Transit announced at the end of 2005 that it would open the station on 15 January 2006.<ref>Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref><ref name="Zahara NewsAsia 2006">Template:Cite web</ref>
The Buangkok station opened as scheduled "with much fanfare".<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Since its opening, however, the station averaged only 1,386 daily riders instead of the expected 6,000.<ref name="poor ridership">Template:Cite news</ref> Many residents still traveled to the adjacent Sengkang and Hougang stations due to their amenities.<ref name="Aiyoh">Template:Cite news</ref> SBS Transit, after saying that it was still "too early to draw a conclusion" about ridership,<ref name="poor ridership" /> remained committed to keeping the station open to serve future developments nearby.<ref name="Aiyoh" />
Woodleigh station, built near the former Bidadari cemetery,<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> was scheduled to open seven or eight years after the rest of the line.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In January 2011, The Straits Times reported that preparations for the station's opening had been ongoing since the second half of 2010; the newspaper speculated that the station would open in mid-2011 to serve new developments in the area.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In a March parliamentary session, Transport Minister Raymond Lim confirmed that the station would open on 20 June 2011.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> SBS deployed several staff members to assist confused commuters who alighted at Woodleigh station instead of the adjacent Serangoon station. Others alighted to view the station's interior or try an alternative route from the station.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
North East Line extension (NELe)
On 17 January 2013, transport minister Lui Tuck Yew announced a one-station extension of the NEL to serve upcoming developments in Punggol North.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Although it was initially planned to extend the line by 2030,<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Second Minister for Transport Ng Chee Meng announced on 7 June 2017 that the Template:Convert extension would be moved up to 2023 in conjunction with development plans for the area,<ref name="New station Punggol">Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name=LTANELexp>Template:Cite web</ref> later delayed to 2024 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref name="40%">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="delay2024">Template:Cite web</ref>
The contract for the extension was awarded to China State Construction Engineering Corporation Limited (Singapore Branch) in December, and construction began that month.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref name="wins award">Template:Cite web</ref> Although tunneling was completed on 13 November 2020, transport minister Ong Ye Kung said at the tunnel breakthrough ceremony that the Punggol Coast station's completion would be delayed until 2024 due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref name="40%" /><ref name="delay2024" /> In June and July 2024, NEL operations began later at 8Template:Nbspam on Sundays to integrate testing and commissioning works with the new station.<ref name="n492">Template:Cite web</ref> As previously announced by the LTA on 10 October 2024,<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="r577">Template:Cite web</ref> Punggol Coast station opened on 10 December.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Network and operations
Template:AnchorService
In 2022, the NEL had a daily ridership of 527,000.<ref name="Condensed Financial Statements" /><ref name="The Straits Times 2023" /> The line operates between 5:30Template:Nbspam and 12:30Template:Nbspam. On weekdays and Saturdays, the first train leaves Punggol Coast (the northern terminus) at 5:39Template:Nbspam; the last train leaves HarbourFront (the southern terminus) at 11:56Template:Nbsppm.<ref name="SBSTransit First and Last">Template:Cite web</ref> Trains run every 2.5 to 5 minutes,<ref name="LTA frequencies">Template:Cite web</ref> and the line's total travel time is 35 minutes.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
The NEL initially had a higher fare than the North–South and East–West lines due to greater operating costs.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> On 30 December 2016, however, fares were lowered to match the other lines with a "purely distance-based approach". This revision, made after a fare review by the Public Transport Council, was intended to minimise commuter confusion.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="PTC 2016">Template:Cite web</ref> To ease the morning crowds riding on the NEL, from 27 December 2025, free fares will apply to those tapping in at any of the stations from Kovan to Punggol Coast on weekday mornings before 7.30Template:Nbspam, or between 9Template:Nbspam and 9.45Template:Nbspam.<ref name="ST Christie j207">Template:Cite web</ref>
The first line operated by SBS Transit,<ref name="NAS NEL appointment"/> the NEL has been part of the New Rail Financing Framework (NRFF) since 2018. Previously, the operator (the owner of the rail assets) had to bear the cost of maintaining and upgrading trains and signalling. Under the NRFF, the LTA and SBS Transit will share the profits and financial risks in operating the line and the LTA will take control of its operating assets on 1 April 2033. SBS Transit will operate the line under a 15-year licence which will expire on 31 March 2033.<ref name="NRFF LTA 2018">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="Auto LTA Takeover 2018">Template:Cite web</ref>
Route
As its name implies, the fully-underground Template:Convert NEL runs from Singapore's city centre to the northeastern parts of the island.<ref name="lta-nel">Template:Cite web</ref> The line goes northeast from HarbourFront station, paralleling New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Street in Chinatown between the Outram Park and Clarke Quay stations. Passing under the Singapore River and Fort Canning Hill to Dhoby Ghaut station, it continues north to Little India station under Bukit Timah Road. Following Race Course Road and Serangoon Road through Little India and Boon Keng, it crosses the Whampoa and Kallang Rivers before reaching Potong Pasir.<ref name="OneMap">Template:Cite web</ref>
Between the Potong Pasir and Kovan stations, the NEL parallels Upper Serangoon Road before curving north to Hougang station. The line then runs along Hougang Avenue 6 and Sengkang Central to Sengkang station in Sengkang as well as Punggol station in Punggol.<ref name="OneMap"/> It then curves east towards Punggol Coast station.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The line is coloured purple on official maps.<ref name="LTA system map">Template:Cite web</ref>
Stations
The line has 17 stations from HarbourFront to Punggol Coast. Eight stations (eventually nine upon completion of the Cross Island Line) connect to other MRT/LRT lines.<ref name="LTA 2020">Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> A station designated "NE2", which was included in the 1991 master plan between HarbourFront and Outram Park,<ref name="Urban Redevelopment Authority 2023">Template:Cite web</ref> may be built if development warrants it.<ref name="straits">Template:Cite news</ref>
Infrastructure
Rolling stock
The NEL's rolling stock has six-car electric multiple unit (EMU) trains, with four doors per side on each carriage, and can accommodate up to 1,920 passengers per trainset.<ref name="Alstom in Singapore">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="Alstom PDF"/> Twenty-five first-generation Alstom Metropolis C751A trains were ordered,<ref name="NEL 2004"/><ref name="LTA first-generation enhancement">Template:Cite web</ref> built in France by Alstom in 2000 and 2001.<ref name="Alstom in Singapore"/> An additional 18 second-generation Alstom Metropolis C751C trains, an updated version of the C751A,<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> were delivered to Singapore beginning in July 2014<ref name="shorter waits">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="The Straits Times 2014">Template:Cite web</ref> and were built in Shanghai between 2014 and 2016.<ref name="Alstom in Singapore"/> To increase the line extension's passenger capacity, an additional six third-generation Alstom Metropolis C851E trains were ordered.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Built in Barcelona,<ref name="Alstom in Singapore"/> the first trainset arrived in Singapore on 4 April 2021 and entered service on 28 July 2023.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref name="LTA n535">Template:Cite web</ref>
The automatic trains are controlled by an operations control centre (OCC) at Sengkang Depot. The fleet's brake systems permit smooth, quiet stopping.<ref name="Too smart" /> Train speeds can reach Template:Convert.<ref name="Alstom PDF"/> Safety features include closed-circuit television cameras for train interiors and a passenger emergency communications system which allows communication between passengers and the OCC.<ref name="Too smart">Template:Cite newsTemplate:Cbignore</ref> The trains have wide seats and dedicated space for wheelchair users.Template:Sfn
The trains are made of fire-resistant materials and include fire and smoke detectors and a fire barrier under its frame.<ref name="Alstom PDF">Template:Cite web</ref> They have a pair of beams (rail guards) which detect obstacles in the train's path; smaller debris is swept away, and the train automatically stops if the beams detect larger objects.<ref name="Safe driverless">Template:Cite news</ref> A 1,500V overhead catenary system (OCS) powers the trains,Template:Efn the MRT network's first electrical system of that type. The OCS provides a safer environment for maintenance workers on the tracks and is less expensive, with a smaller conductor.Template:Sfn In an emergency when the train is stopped, the doors on both sides can be opened easily without electricity and ramps lower for passenger evacuation in the tunnels.Template:Sfn<ref name="driverless and eyes">Template:Cite news</ref>
In 2019, the first-generation trains began undergoing a mid-life refurbishment which is scheduled for completion by the third quarter of 2024.<ref name="LTA first-generation enhancement"/> Upgrades include the replacement of interior parts and the installation of a new condition-monitoring system which will monitor train performance.<ref name="Lim 2018">Template:Cite web</ref> The first refurbished train re-entered service on 28 February 2022.<ref name="Kok enter service 2022">Template:Cite web</ref>
With the passenger trains, the NEL tunnels and tracks are maintained by a fleet of engineering trains. There are four types of engineering trains: the locomotive, for towing wagons with equipment; the heavy crane vehicle, for changing tracks; the multi-function vehicle, for detecting flaws on rails and in tunnels; and the rail-grinding machine, for grinding rails back into shape.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The engineering trains are manufactured by Plasser & Theurer, Speno, and Harsco Rail.<ref name="Railway Gazette International 2003">Template:Cite web</ref> A new fleet of engineering trains has been supplied by CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive.<ref name="过期杂志阅读平台_参考网 2020">Template:Cite web</ref>
Depot
The Sengkang Depot, located along Sengkang East Avenue between the Buangkok and Sengkang stations, is the service and storage area for NEL trains.<ref name="OneMap"/>Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn Built by Hyundai Engineering and Construction for S$350 million (US$Template:ToUSD million),<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> the Template:Convert depot includes the OCCTemplate:Sfn which monitors the line's train and station operations.Template:Sfn
The depot can accommodate up to 44 trains,Template:Sfn with three additional stabling tracks being built for the NELe as of 2019.<ref name="Siemens Tan 2019"/> It also houses LRT trains for the Sengkang and Punggol LRT lines above the depot.Template:Sfn<ref name="LTA two-car 2021">Template:Cite web</ref>
Its facilities include a four-storey administrative building, maintenance bays, a workshop and an automated warehouse. The depot's workshop has equipment which can raise an entire train for repairs, Singapore's first such workshop. Using the NEL's signalling system, train movement in the depot is mainly automatic. Staff members access the area via three dedicated tunnels for safety reasons.Template:Sfn
The OCC also controls the equipment and systems of tunnels, stations, power substations and the depot, which are integrated into one terminal. The systems are managed by four or five rotating teams working around the clock. Alongside a training and software-development room, the OCC has a depot control centre to monitor and supervise its operations.Template:Sfn<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Signalling
The NEL is fully automatic,<ref name="who's driving">Template:Cite news</ref> using Alstom's Urbalis 300 moving-block signalling system.<ref name="Alstom PDF"/> The NEL is the world's first fully automated heavy-rail system.<ref name="CNA 2022">Template:Cite web</ref> Its construction allowed the LTA to explore, integrate and implement new and existing technology as part of its vision of a fully-automated system.Template:Sfn The line's automatic train control (ATC) is based on Alstom's MASTRIA software, which also manages its automatic train protection (ATP) and automatic train operation (ATO) GoA 4 (UTO). The Urbalis system also includes a computer-based Interlocking system which controls the track switches and interfaces with the ATC and the data-management system. The DMS, monitored by station staff, oversees the signalling equipment, platform doors and trains.<ref name="Alstom PDF"/>
The ATP system maintains a buffer between trains.Template:Sfn The minimum permitted distance is Template:Convert, although the average distance between trains is at least Template:Convert.<ref name="Safe driverless"/> Using microwave technology, the IAGO waveguide (Informatisation et Automatisation par Guide d'Onde or waveguide transmission line system for computer and automation applications)Template:Sfn allows two-way communication between trains and monitors the trains' positions and movements. If a train enters the buffer, the ATP automatically adjusts the train's speed.Template:Sfn
At least 500 computer systems control the NEL. In case of a glitch, backup systems would take over; the system would "go to sleep" if it experiences a severe malfunction. In the event of system failure, drivers would be deployed to manually operate the trains.<ref name="driverless and eyes"/><ref name="who's driving" /> The NEL maintains its "mean kilometres between failures" target of one million train-km (Template:Convert train-miles). As part of an NEL refurbishment programme announced on 17 December 2018, parts of the power and signalling systems were serviced and new rail crossings and tracks installed.<ref name="Lim 2018"/>
Station facilities
Every station has a passenger service centre (PSC) on its concourse.Template:Sfn The PSCs are generally curved, unlike the boxier designs of those in older MRT stations.Template:Sfn In addition to assisting passengers and checking and topping up their fare cards, the PSC staff monitors and controls the functions of connecting tunnels and communicates with the OCC at the depot. When a station is used as a civil-defence (CD) shelter, the PSC becomes the command centre.Template:Sfn
Each NEL station is equipped with "energy-smart" Otis escalators connecting its levels. Their speed is reduced by half when not in use, reducing energy consumption and wear and tear. The Woodleigh station has one of the longest sets of escalators at Template:Convert. In addition to escalators, Dhoby Ghaut is the first MRT station with a set of Template:Convert travellators which link the NEL and NSL platforms.Template:Sfn
All NEL stations have lifts which provide step-free access to their platforms.<ref name="sbstransit.com.sg 2006">Template:Cite web</ref> Most of the lifts have glass doors, which improve appearance and enhance security. Each lift has a communications system, connected to the station's PSC. If a lift stalls during a station blackout, a battery-powered backup system provides lighting and ventilation for four hours.Template:Sfn
Accessibility
In compliance with Singapore's Code on Barrier-Free Accessibility, NEL stations have wheelchair-friendly facilities.Template:Sfn Each station has an entrance that was built with barrier-free access via lifts and ramps,Template:Sfn in contrast to older stations on previous lines which are being retrofitted.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
The NEL has the MRT's first tactile system. Consisting of tiles with raised rounded or elongated studs, the system intends to guide visually-impaired commuters through a station on a dedicated route from entrance to platforms.<ref name="NEL opens"/>Template:Sfn Station seats have armrests to assist those who have difficulty getting up.Template:Sfn
These accessibility features were part of the recommendations of a LTA working group set up to improve accessibility on the MRT network. Associations representing the disabled were also consulted. The group completed its findings in 1999; only some of its recommendations had been adopted by 2003, since station infrastructure was nearly completed by then.Template:Sfn
Safety
Westinghouse supplied 768 pairs of platform screen doors (PSDs) to the NEL's original 16 stations. The PSDs are a safety barrier between passengers on platforms and trains.<ref name="Allison 2007">Template:Cite web</ref><ref name="What are PSDs">Template:Cite web</ref> The PSDs enable climate control in a station, minimising the loss of cool air from the platforms and preventing warm air from entering the station from the tunnels.Template:Sfn The Punggol Coast station's PSDs are supplied by ST Engineering Electronics.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The platforms have emergency-stop plungers (ESPs) to halt trains in an emergency.Template:Sfn
More than 10,000 smoke and heat detectors are installed in the NEL's stations as part of the line's fire-alarm system.Template:Sfn The alarm, which automatically alerts SBS Transit of any faults in the system, is integrated with the public address system; instead of alarm bells, pre-recorded messages would assist commuters in evacuating. In addition to the detectors, sprinkler and hose reel systems, dry riser pipeworks and an inert-gas system would contain a fire.Template:Sfn
During a fire, escalators could be shut down remotely from the PSC and the fare gates opened for evacuation. The air-conditioning system would be shut down to minimise re-circulation of smoke.Template:Sfn An installed "smoke curtain" system controls smoke movement, and automatic smoke-extraction fans remove any contained smoke.Template:Sfn
Template:AnchorCivil defence
All NEL stations except Dhoby Ghaut, Sengkang, Punggol and Punggol Coast are designated civil-defence (CD) shelters.<ref name="Clean up">Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> Each CD station is designed to accommodate at least 7,500 people and withstand airstrikes and chemical attacks. Equipment essential for shelter operations is mounted on shock absorbers to prevent damage during a bombing. When electricity supply to the shelter is disrupted, backup generators are used.Template:Sfn
During emergencies, large sliding doors would seal the entrances and the tunnel portals would be manually sealed by blast doors.Template:Sfn<ref name="CNA 2023">Template:Cite web</ref> The shelters have built-in decontamination chambers and dry toilets, with collection bins which would remove human waste from the shelter. The toilets are next to an exhaust ventilation outlet to remove odors.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Culture
Architecture
Template:Multiple image Each of the NEL stations has a unique design which reflects its location.<ref name="local flavour">Template:Cite news</ref> The HarbourFront station has a maritime theme, with an elliptical ship's-hull motif used for the ceiling and concourse entrances to the platforms.Template:Sfn At Little India, the station walls' metal grills have leaf-shaped patterns similar to the door patterns of Hindu prayer rooms.<ref name="local flavour" /> The station's design was intended to reflect Indian traditions.Template:Sfn
Station entrances use glass, allowing natural lighting during the day.<ref name="local flavour" /> Exit A of the Chinatown station has a transparent pavilion-style roof, which allows natural light and provides an unobstructed view of the shophouses along Pagoda Street.<ref name="LTA 2020"/>Template:Sfn At Serangoon, each of its four triangular-shaped entrances is painted a different colour and enclosed in a cubic structure.<ref name=lta-nel/> Unlike at the other NEL stations, the entrances to Buangkok do not use glass; white Teflon sheets are supported by metal frames.<ref name="local flavour" />
Dhoby Ghaut station is the MRT network's largest,<ref name="SAA architects">Template:Cite web</ref> and the five-level station is integrated with the twin-towered office complex Atrium@Orchard above it.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The network's first such integration of an MRT station with a commercial development,<ref name="SAA architects" /><ref name="DGB 2">Template:Cite web</ref> it permits more efficient land use and improves access to public transport.<ref name="Topping out">Template:Cite web</ref> The station's NEL platforms, Template:Convert underground, are some of the MRT's deepest.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
The four-level Sengkang station<ref name="NEL Sengkang">Template:Cite web</ref><ref>Template:Cite web</ref> is an integrated hub, with Singapore's three public-transport modes – MRT, LRT and bus – serving the Sengkang area. The MRT/LRT station was the MRT network's first intermodal station for all three transport modes.<ref name="LTA 2020"/>Template:Sfn In addition to its transport facilities, the station is integrated with the Compass Heights and Compass Point developments.<ref name="NEL Sengkang"/>Template:Sfn<ref name="Frasers Property">Template:Cite web</ref>
Designed by the 3HPArchitects and Farrells architectural firms,Template:Sfn<ref name="Farrells 2017">Template:Cite web</ref> the Punggol station is integrated with the LRT station and the bus interchange.<ref name="Punggol info NEL 2">Template:Cite web</ref> Its curved aluminium and stainless-steel cladding gives the station a futuristic look befitting the Punggol 21 developments.<ref name="Punggol info NEL 1">Template:Cite web</ref>Template:Sfn Covering Template:Convert along Punggol Central to accommodate bus stops, taxi stands and passenger drop-off points along the road, the station is the NEL's longest.Template:Sfn
Artworks
The line introduced the MRT network's Art-in-Transit (AiT) programme, which showcases art in the network.<ref name="Launch">Template:Cite web</ref> Nineteen works by 20 artists are featured in its stations.<ref name="Massot 2020">Template:Cite web</ref> Artists were selected by an art-review panel, which reviewed the artists' portfolios and managed conceptual development.Template:Sfn Considered a "significant milestone" for public art in Singapore,Template:Sfn AiT aims to enhance the riding experience.<ref name="Massot 2020"/> Unlike artwork in the original North–South and East–West Line stations, the works must be integrated into a station's design and reflect the history and heritage of its surroundings.<ref name="Launch" />Template:Sfn
| Station code | Station name | Artwork name | Artist(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Template:SMRT code | HarbourFront | Engimatic Appearances | Ian Woo |
| Template:SMRT code | Outram Park | Memories | Wang Lu Sheng |
| Commuters | Teo Eng Seng | ||
| Template:SMRT code | Chinatown | The Phoenix's-Eye Domain | Tan Swie Hian |
| Template:SMRT code | Clarke Quay | The Reflections | Chua Ek Kay |
| Template:SMRT code | Dhoby Ghaut | Interchange | Milenko and Delia Prvacki |
| Universal Language | Sun Yu-Li | ||
| Template:SMRT code | Little India | Memoirs of the Past | S. Chandrasekaran |
| Template:SMRT code | Farrer Park | Rhythmic Exuberance | Poh Siew Wah |
| Template:SMRT code | Boon Keng | Metamorphosis | Lim Poh Teck |
| Template:SMRT code | Potong Pasir | Point of View | Matthew Ngui |
| Template:SMRT code | Woodleigh | Slow Motion | April Ng |
| Template:SMRT code | Serangoon | Memories of Childhood | Eng Joo Heng |
| Template:SMRT code | Kovan | The Trade-off | Eng Tow |
| Template:SMRT code | Hougang | Hands Up for Hougang | Seck Yok Ying |
| Template:SMRT code | Buangkok | Water, Nature & Contemporary | Vincent Leow |
| Template:SMRT code | Sengkang | T.R.A.N.S.I.T.I.O.N.S. | Koh Bee Liang |
| Template:SMRT code | Punggol | Water, Landscape & Future | Goh Beng Kwan |
| Template:SMRT code | Punggol Coast | TRAJECTORIES | Zul Othman |
Notes and references
Notes
References
Bibliography
External links
- Template:Commons category-inline
- North East Line (Official LTA website)
- North East Line (SBS Transit)
Template:Portalbar Template:Singapore MRT stations Template:Rail transport in Singapore Template:Urban Rail Transit in ASEAN