Circle Line Singapore

In particular, the LTA will examine how to improve the maintenance regime, as well as quickly identifying and isolating any faults to minimise the impact on the rest of the rail network, said Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew yesterday.

He was speaking to reporters after visiting three of the 12 new Circle Line stations which will open on Saturday. Ahead of the opening, Mr Lui called on public transport operator SMRT to continue to conduct thorough checks on the Circle Line.

SMRT had said leaks and a damaged cable along a tunnel at Dakota MRT Station were the cause of the four-hour delay on the Circle Line last month. The disruption affected some 27,000 commuters.

The 12 new Circle Line stations were opened to the public for a sneak preview yesterday. Mr Lui also thanked Singaporeans, especially residents living near the new stations, for their patience with the construction.

Motorists and residents had previously complained on the many road diversions along Farrer Road and North Buona Vista Road when the underground stations were being built.

"I'm glad that the work has been finished and they are going to enjoy the convenience that the Circle Line would bring," Mr Lui said. He added that some commuters may see a lower transport fare as they can now travel a shorter distance. The Transport Minister noted the completion of the Circle Line "will change the travel pattern somewhat" with commuters using it more to connect to the other MRT lines.

Ms Jeanine Ng, who stays near the Dakota MRT Station, expects to shave off 10 minutes of travelling time to her Jurong East workplace now. "We have more choices now with the new MRT line. Instead of taking the bus, we can also take the train," said the senior human resource administrator.

Welfare officer Sandra Chan, who brought her son and daughter to the Botanic Gardens yesterday via the MRT, said: "It is very convenient. We can go to a lot more places. Attractions like the Botanic Gardens are one of those places that we really want to visit but it will take very long if we take the bus."