Executive Summary

Singapore’s East-West Line will experience one of its most significant service disruptions in recent years, with Tanah Merah and Simei MRT stations closing for 10 consecutive days from November 29 to December 8, 2025. This major infrastructure work will affect an estimated 180,000 daily passengers and require careful journey planning for residents and workers in the eastern corridor.

Understanding the Service Disruption

Scope of Closure

The closure creates two separate service gaps along the East-West Line:

Gap 1: Bedok to Tampines

• No direct train service between these stations
• Affects commuters traveling through Simei station
• Creates a significant gap in the eastern residential corridor

Gap 2: Tanah Merah to Expo

• Completely isolates Tanah Merah station from the network
• Disrupts connections to Changi Airport branch line
• Impacts airport-bound travelers and Expo event attendees

Why This Closure Is Necessary

The Land Transport Authority has mandated this extended closure to complete critical infrastructure projects that cannot be safely executed during standard maintenance windows. The works include:

1. Track Connection to East Coast Integrated Depot: Establishing new rail connections that will enhance maintenance capabilities and operational efficiency for the entire East-West Line
2. New Platform Integration at Tanah Merah: Adding infrastructure to improve passenger flow and accommodate future capacity increases
3. Safety and Speed Considerations: Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow emphasized that extended closures allow repair works to be completed more quickly and safely, rather than stretching work over many months of early closures and late openings

Impact Timeline and Service Adjustments

Reduced Frequency Periods:

• Tampines to Pasir Ris: Trains every 5 minutes (reduced from typical 2-3 minute intervals during peak hours)
• Paya Lebar to Bedok: Trains every 8 minutes (significantly longer than normal service)
• Expo to Changi Airport: Trains every 5 minutes during peak periods

Expected Delays:

• Additional journey time of up to 30 minutes for affected routes
• Crowding at alternative stations, particularly Bedok, Tampines, Paya Lebar, and Downtown Line interchanges
• Extended waiting times at bus stops serving shuttle services

Detailed Alternative Travel Options

Option 1: Shuttle Bus Services (Primary Alternative)

The Land Transport Authority has organized two dedicated shuttle bus routes specifically for this disruption:

Shuttle 7: Bedok ↔ Tampines

Route Details:

• Direct connection between Bedok and Tampines MRT stations
• Frequency: Every 3-5 minutes during operating hours
• Estimated journey time: 15-20 minutes (depending on traffic)
• Operating hours: Aligned with MRT operating hours

Best For:

• Residents of Simei traveling to either Bedok or Tampines
• Through passengers continuing eastward or westward along the EWL
• Those familiar with the direct route

Travel Tips:

• Board early during peak hours (7-9 AM, 6-8 PM) as buses will be extremely crowded
• Consider traveling 15-20 minutes earlier than usual
• Elderly and passengers with mobility issues should note that standing may be required during peak periods

Shuttle 8: Bedok ↔ Expo

Route Details:

• Connects Bedok to Expo station, bypassing both Tanah Merah and Simei
• Frequency: Every 10 minutes
• Estimated journey time: 20-25 minutes
• Serves passengers heading to Changi Airport via Expo

Best For:

• Airport-bound travelers from the west
• Passengers attending events at Singapore Expo
• Those connecting to the Changi Airport branch line

Travel Considerations:

• Less frequent than Shuttle 7, so timing is more critical
• May experience delays during peak traffic hours
• Factor in additional buffer time for airport journeys

Option 2: Downtown Line Connections (Recommended for Many Routes)

The Downtown Line offers multiple interchange points that can bypass the affected East-West Line section entirely:

Bedok Interchange (Bedok MRT)

Routing Strategy:

• Take Downtown Line from Bedok northward toward Bukit Panjang
• Interchange at key stations depending on final destination:
  • Bugis: Transfer to East-West Line (westbound to city, eastbound less useful due to disruption)
  • Bayfront: Connect to Circle Line
  • Chinatown: Connect to North-East Line
  • Little India: Connect to North-East Line
  • Botanic Gardens: Connect to Circle Line

Advantages:

• Avoids the disrupted section entirely
• More predictable journey times than road-based alternatives
• Less crowding than shuttle buses during peak hours

Journey Examples:

• Tanah Merah to City Hall: Instead of EWL direct (now impossible), take Downtown Line from Bedok to Bugis, then EWL to City Hall
• Simei to Orchard: Take bus to Bedok, Downtown Line to Botanic Gardens, Circle Line to Orchard
• Tanah Merah to Outram Park: Bus to Bedok, Downtown Line to Chinatown, North-East Line to Outram Park

Tampines Interchange (Tampines MRT)

Routing Options:

• Downtown Line runs from Tampines through central Singapore
• Provides direct access without needing shuttle buses
• Particularly useful for residents of Tampines and Pasir Ris

Strategic Interchanges:

• MacPherson: Transfer to Circle Line for connections to Serangoon, Bishan, and beyond
• Bugis: Transfer to East-West Line for city destinations
• Downtown: Connect to Telok Ayer for walk to Raffles Place/business district

Option 3: Regular Bus Services

Existing public bus services offer additional alternatives, particularly for local journeys:

Key Bus Routes Serving the Affected Area:

From Simei:

• Bus 9: Simei to Pasir Ris (eastern connections)
• Bus 20: Connects to Tampines interchange
• Bus 38: Serves Changi Business Park and Expo areas
• Bus 518: Limited service connecting to various points

From Tanah Merah:

• Bus 2: Connects to Changi Village and eastern areas
• Bus 9: Useful for northward travel toward Tampines
• Bus 31: Serves Upper Changi and Bedok South areas

From Bedok/Tampines Corridor:

• Bus 10: Connects multiple residential areas
• Bus 15: Serves eastern residential zones
• Bus 21: Covers Tampines to Bedok route
• Bus 291: Express service during peak hours

When to Use Bus Services:

• For short-distance travel within the eastern region
• When shuttle buses are too crowded
• For destinations not directly served by MRT lines
• During off-peak hours when frequency is adequate

Option 4: Multi-Modal Journey Planning

For complex journeys, combining different transport modes often provides the optimal solution:

Example Journey 1: Tanah Merah to Jurong East

Traditional Route (Not Available): Tanah Merah → Direct EWL → Jurong East (approximately 45 minutes)

Alternative Route Options:

Option A (Via Shuttle + EWL):

1. Walk/feeder bus to shuttle bus pickup point near Tanah Merah
2. Shuttle 8 to Bedok (20-25 minutes)
3. EWL from Bedok to Jurong East (40 minutes)
4. Total time: 70-80 minutes

Option B (Via Shuttle + Downtown Line – RECOMMENDED):

1. Shuttle 8 to Bedok (20-25 minutes)
2. Downtown Line from Bedok to Bugis (15 minutes)
3. EWL from Bugis to Jurong East (30 minutes)
4. Total time: 70-75 minutes

Option C (Via Bus to Tampines + DTL):

1. Regular bus service to Tampines (15-20 minutes)
2. Downtown Line from Tampines to Bugis (20 minutes)
3. EWL from Bugis to Jurong East (30 minutes)
4. Total time: 70-75 minutes

Example Journey 2: Simei to Changi Airport

Traditional Route (Not Available): Simei → Tanah Merah → Changi Airport (15 minutes)

Alternative Route Options:

Option A (Via Shuttle – FASTEST):

1. Walk to Bedok MRT via shuttle or bus (15 minutes)
2. Shuttle 8 from Bedok to Expo (20-25 minutes)
3. EWL from Expo to Changi Airport (10 minutes)
4. Total time: 50-55 minutes

Option B (Via Tampines):

1. Shuttle 7 to Tampines (15 minutes)
2. EWL from Tampines to Tanah Merah to Changi Airport (NOT AVAILABLE due to closure)
3. Must use Shuttle 8 route instead

Travel Advisory for Airport Passengers:

• Add at least 45-60 minutes to normal journey time
• Consider booking private transport for early morning/late night flights
• Monitor shuttle bus arrivals via MyTransport.SG app

Example Journey 3: Pasir Ris to Marina Bay

Traditional Route (Partially Affected): Pasir Ris → EWL → City destinations (with normal service)

Alternative Route (Avoiding Potential Delays):

Option A (Via Tampines DTL):

1. EWL from Pasir Ris to Tampines (8 minutes, but 5-minute frequency)
2. Downtown Line from Tampines to Downtown/Bayfront (25 minutes)
3. Total time: 40-45 minutes (similar to normal but more reliable)

Option B (Via Direct EWL – Less Recommended):

1. Take EWL toward city (reduced frequency to Tampines)
2. Continue through non-affected stations
3. May face crowding and delays at Bedok/Paya Lebar

Option 5: Private Transport and Ride-Sharing

For those with flexibility and budget, private transport options include:

Taxi/Ride-Hailing Services:

• Expect surge pricing during peak hours
• Journey from Tanah Merah to Bedok: $8-12
• Journey from Simei to Tampines: $6-10
• Airport journeys: $15-25 depending on origin

Private Car Considerations:

• Increased traffic expected on Upper Changi Road, Bedok North Avenue, and Tampines Avenue
• Parking availability at destination stations may be limited
• Carpool with neighbors or colleagues when possible

Strategic Planning for Different Commuter Groups

For Daily Office Commuters

If You Live in Simei/Tanah Merah and Work in CBD:

Morning Commute Strategy:

• Leave home 30-40 minutes earlier than usual
• Use Shuttle 7 or 8 to reach Bedok, then take Downtown Line
• Alternative: Take bus to Tampines, use Downtown Line from there
• Avoid traveling between 8:00-9:00 AM if possible

Evening Return Strategy:

• Leave office 20-30 minutes earlier to avoid peak shuttle crowds
• Consider working flexible hours if employer permits
• Downtown Line to Bedok or Tampines, then shuttle home

If You Live West of Bedok and Work East of Tampines:

Commute Strategy:

• Factor in delays at Bedok and Paya Lebar due to reduced frequency
• Consider Downtown Line alternatives via Bugis
• Allow extra 20-30 minutes for journey

For Airport Workers and Travelers

Airport Staff:

Commuting from Affected Areas:

• Use Shuttle 8 to Expo, then airport branch line
• For early morning shifts (before 6 AM), arrange private transport or taxi
• Consider temporary accommodation closer to airport during this period
• Coordinate carpools with colleagues

Air Travelers:

Journey Planning:

• Add minimum 60 minutes to usual journey time
• For morning flights before 8 AM, strongly consider taxi/private hire
• Use MyTransport.SG app to track real-time shuttle bus locations
• Have backup transport plan (taxi budget) in case of unexpected delays

For Students

Students Traveling to Schools/Colleges:

Primary/Secondary School Students:

• Parents should accompany younger children on first day of disruption
• Familiarize students with shuttle bus boarding points
• Consider school bus services if available
• Coordinate with other parents for shared pickups/drop-offs

Tertiary Students:

• Adjust study schedules to avoid peak travel times
• Use Downtown Line connections when possible
• Consider temporary arrangement with classmates living closer to campus
• Budget extra time for morning lectures

For Elderly and Mobility-Impaired Passengers

Special Considerations:

Accessibility Concerns:

• Shuttle buses may be crowded with limited seating
• SMRT staff deployed to assist at affected stations
• Priority seating should be observed strictly
• Consider traveling during off-peak hours (10 AM – 4 PM, after 8 PM)

Alternative Arrangements:

• Apply for accessible transport services for essential journeys
• Reschedule non-urgent medical appointments if possible
• Request family members’ assistance during this period
• Use taxi/private hire for important appointments

For Event Attendees and Expo Visitors

Singapore Expo Events:

Access Strategy:

• Use Shuttle 8 from Bedok to Expo
• Allow extra 45 minutes for journey
• For large events, expect significant crowding
• Consider arriving early and leaving after peak exodus

Changi Airport Terminal Visitors:

Meeting Arrivals/Departures:

• Factor in additional hour for journey
• Coordinate precise meeting times with travelers
• Use airport’s short-term parking if driving instead
• Consider virtual meetups to avoid unnecessary travel

Hour-by-Hour Crowding Expectations

Morning Peak (6:00 AM – 9:30 AM)

Extreme Crowding Expected:

• Shuttle bus boarding points at Bedok and Tampines
• Bedok MRT platform (Downtown Line)
• Tampines MRT interchange
• Paya Lebar station (interchange crowding)

Recommendations:

• Travel before 7:00 AM or after 9:30 AM if possible
• Expect to queue 10-15 minutes for shuttle buses
• All alternative MRT lines will experience spillover crowding

Mid-Day (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Moderate Crowding:

• Shuttle buses less crowded but still busy
• MRT alternatives running smoothly
• Best time for non-urgent travel

Recommendations:

• Ideal window for elderly and families with young children
• Grocery shopping, medical appointments should be scheduled here
• More comfortable travel experience overall

Evening Peak (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Severe Crowding Expected:

• Shuttle bus boarding points at all locations
• Bedok and Tampines MRT stations
• Extended waiting times likely

Recommendations:

• Consider leaving work early (before 5:00 PM) or late (after 8:00 PM)
• Employers should consider flexible work arrangements
• Budget 40-50 minutes extra for journey home

Late Evening (8:00 PM – 11:30 PM)

Light to Moderate Crowding:

• Services less crowded
• More predictable journey times
• Shorter queues for shuttle buses

Recommendations:

• Better time for social activities, dining out
• More comfortable return journeys
• Still allow extra 20-30 minutes buffer time

Technology and Real-Time Information

Essential Apps and Resources

MyTransport.SG Mobile App:

• Real-time bus and train arrival times
• Service disruption alerts
• Journey planner with updated routes during closure
• Shuttle bus tracking (specific to this disruption)

SMRT Connect App:

• Station-specific updates
• Platform crowding indicators
• Alternative route suggestions

Google Maps/Transit Apps:

• May not immediately reflect shuttle bus routes
• Use for general navigation but verify with official sources
• Updates journey times based on current traffic

Social Media Channels

Official Update Sources:

• LTA Twitter/X: @LTAsg
• SMRT Twitter/X: @SMRT_Singapore
• LTA Facebook: Land Transport Authority
• Telegram channels for real-time alerts

Update Frequency:

• Major disruptions: Immediate alerts
• Daily service updates: Morning and evening
• Crowding updates: During peak hours

Financial Considerations

Fare Implications

Shuttle Bus Services:

• FREE for all passengers with valid public transport cards
• No additional charges beyond regular distance-based fares
• Tap in at origin station, tap out at destination

Alternative Route Costs:

• Downtown Line diversions may slightly increase total fare
• Typical increase: $0.20 – $0.50 per journey
• Monthly expense increase: Approximately $10-20 for daily commuters

Private Transport Budget:

• Daily taxi alternative: $15-25 per day ($300-500 for 10 days)
• Ride-sharing: Slightly lower but subject to surge pricing
• Carpool arrangements: Share costs with neighbors

Time Value Calculation

Lost Time Estimate:

• Daily commuters: Additional 1-2 hours per day (round trip)
• Over 10 days: 10-20 hours of extra commute time
• Monthly pass holders may feel greatest impact

Productivity Considerations:

• Consider remote work arrangements if possible
• Use extended commute time for reading, podcasts, or rest
• Employers should show understanding for late arrivals

Preparation Checklist

One Week Before (Before Nov 29)

• Review your typical journey and identify alternative routes
• Download MyTransport.SG app and enable notifications
• Test alternative routes during off-peak hours
• Discuss flexible work arrangements with employer
• Inform family members of changed schedules
• Top up transport cards to avoid delays
• Identify shuttle bus boarding locations physically
• Save LTA and SMRT contact numbers

Daily Preparation

• Check MyTransport.SG for real-time updates
• Leave 30-45 minutes earlier than usual
• Bring water and snacks for extended journey
• Charge mobile phone fully for navigation and updates
• Have backup transport budget (cash for taxi)
• Wear comfortable shoes for potentially longer walks
• Pack patience and understanding for crowded conditions

Post-Disruption (After Dec 8)

• Verify resumption of normal service
• Gradually return to normal schedule
• Provide feedback to LTA on the experience
• Continue using alternative routes if more efficient

Support and Assistance

On-Ground Help

SMRT Staff Deployment:

• Additional staff at Bedok, Tampines, Paya Lebar, and Bugis stations
• Staff at shuttle bus boarding/alighting points
• Multilingual assistance available
• Mobility assistance for elderly and disabled

Information Points:

• Passenger service centers at all MRT stations
• Printed brochures with route maps
• Station posters with alternative journey guides
• Staff with tablets showing real-time service status

Contact Information

LTA Hotline:

• 1800-CALL-LTA (1800-2255-582)
• Available 24/7 for service updates and assistance

SMRT Customer Service:

• 1800-336-8900
• Email: [email protected]
• Operating hours: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM daily

Emergency Situations:

• For medical emergencies on trains/buses: 995
• For security concerns: Contact station staff or SMRT immediately

Long-Term Context

Why More Disruptions Are Coming

Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow announced in November that passengers should expect more scheduled closures stretched over longer periods for major MRT upgrades. This represents a policy shift acknowledging that:

1. Singapore’s MRT network is aging – Older lines require significant maintenance
2. Standard maintenance windows are insufficient – Complex works cannot be completed in 4-5 hour overnight windows
3. Safety is paramount – Extended closures allow safer working conditions for maintenance crews
4. Efficiency gains – Work completed in 10 days versus 6 months of nightly closures

Future Implications

For Commuters:

• Anticipate similar disruptions on other MRT lines
• Build flexibility into work and personal schedules
• Consider residential location decisions with disruption potential in mind

For Employers:

• Implement robust flexible work policies
• Show understanding during scheduled disruptions
• Consider remote work options as standard practice

For Transport Planning:

• Singapore’s public transport remains world-class
• Short-term inconvenience for long-term reliability
• Improved infrastructure will enhance future service quality

Conclusion

The 10-day closure of Simei and Tanah Merah MRT stations represents a significant but manageable disruption to Singapore’s eastern corridor transport network. With proper planning, use of alternative routes, and adjusted schedules, the 180,000 affected daily passengers can navigate this period successfully.

Key takeaways:

1. Plan ahead: Add 30-45 minutes to all journeys
2. Use Downtown Line: Often faster than shuttle buses during peak hours
3. Travel off-peak: Avoid 7-9 AM and 5-8 PM if possible
4. Stay informed: Use MyTransport.SG for real-time updates
5. Be patient: Crowding and delays are expected; maintain courtesy to fellow commuters

This disruption, while inconvenient, serves the greater purpose of enhancing Singapore’s rail infrastructure for decades to come. The completion of the East Coast Integrated Depot connections and Tanah Merah platform improvements will contribute to more reliable and efficient service in the long term.

For daily updates and the most current information, passengers should monitor official LTA and SMRT channels. Safe travels during this period of service adjustment.

---

Last Updated: November 22, 2025
Source: Land Transport Authority (LTA), SMRT Corporation