SMRT has again delivered worsening train service with a new announcement saying that there will be no train service after 11pm between Lakeside and Joo Koon stations, and between Tanah Merah and Changi Airport on the East-West Line over the next two months.
No train services:
April 11 and April 21: Lakeside to Joo Koon
April 28 and May 5: Tanah Merah and Changi Airport
SMRT said that they will provide parallel bus services between the stations during these period.
The public transport operator cited “track maintenance and renewal works” as excuse for the planned disruption:
“More time is needed as the replacement of the rails at railway junctions, where crossing, switch and running rails are located, is a complex process. By closing stations about an hour earlier each night, engineers will have double the time available to work on the tracks.”
SMRT also said that stations along the North-South and East-West Lines will also close early in June, but have yet to confirm the dates.
The Singapore government bailed out SMRT in a billion dollar deal buying over the loss-making physical assets while keeping the profitable operation contracts for SMRT. SMRT’s profits are guaranteed under a new funding model introduced by Minister Khaw Boon Wan.