(Start peak hours at 7 please)

6:30.

^^ Hmm, that definitely makes sense as students from JC and below tend to move around this time. :)

It's probably a timetable reschedule. Or they changed the ATO setup so that when entering Bishan, the system will probe both platforms.

If you have leisure time, perhaps you could monitor Bishan and Marymount (for longer dwell times) during it's peak hours? I am not exactly sure my findings are entirely accurate as I have only done it thrice. :)

Bishan definitely incurred longer dwell times compared to other CCL interchange stations, four times as much, I feel, based on gauging the timings at Serangoon.

As for peak hours reschedulement, 6:30 would also get the primary/secondary student population to school quicker. Most Poly students typically arrive around 7. :)

If you have leisure time, perhaps you could monitor Bishan and Marymount (for longer dwell times) during it's peak hours? I am not exactly sure my findings are entirely accurate as I have only done it thrice. :)

Bishan definitely incurred longer dwell times compared to other CCL interchange stations, four times as much, I feel, based on gauging the timings at Serangoon.

As for peak hours reschedulement, 6:30 would also get the primary/secondary student population to school quicker. Most Poly students typically arrive around 7. :)

I have time, but only on Saturday non-peak hours. :(

Starting peak frequencies at 06:30 will not reduce the peak congestion any more than will starting peak frequencies at 07:00. By starting at about 07:00 rather than about 07:30, some commuters who now travel at the busiest time will change their travel pattern to travel earlier. That effect will be about the same whether the new start time for peak frequencies is 06:30 or 07:00.

Also, the government doesn't care so much about getting the students to school faster. Once people have jobs, getting them to work faster will in some cases result in more time spent at work, which is good for the economy. That reasoning doesn't hold up so well in the case of students.

If operating more trains were free, starting at 06:30 would be a good idea. In the real world, it's expensive to operate just one more train. I don't see any way that the benefits could come close to covering the costs. I think passengers would be upset with the fare hike that would be necessary.

Starting peak frequencies at 06:30 will not reduce the peak congestion any more than will starting peak frequencies at 07:00. By starting at about 07:00 rather than about 07:30, some commuters who now travel at the busiest time will change their travel pattern to travel earlier. That effect will be about the same whether the new start time for peak frequencies is 06:30 or 07:00.

Also, the government doesn't care so much about getting the students to school faster. Once people have jobs, getting them to work faster will in some cases result in more time spent at work, which is good for the economy. That reasoning doesn't hold up so well in the case of students.

If operating more trains were free, starting at 06:30 would be a good idea. In the real world, it's expensive to operate just one more train. I don't see any way that the benefits could come close to covering the costs. I think passengers would be upset with the fare hike that would be necessary.
I agree. Especially for JCs, secondary and primary schools with the exception of the prestige ones, your school should ideally, be close to your home. You're not supposed to be living on one side of the island, then traveling to the other. To me, I think 7.30am is reasonable, at least for the NSL anyway... the first stations (such as SMRT sending trains from Bishan depot to Yishun for short service trips, to the Woodlands sliding, and the roundabout Pasir Ris services) begin to see peak hour-ish but nevertheless erratic but constant frequencies from 6.50am.

Add to the fact that students' fares are "subsidized", and the case becomes a lot weaker.

There is a lot of blue collar workers on trains in the mornings, not just students, beside the fact that lower fares don't make a human more physically compressible and trains less loaded. Ok sure maybe a strictly 2 minutes frequency would be too much before 7am but current 6-7 is a joke.

your school should ideally, be close to your home. You're not supposed to be living on one side of the island, then traveling to the other

My (and thousands' of others) sincere apologies for not having a shorter commute and making everyone else bear with the increased crowd. Sarcasm aside, don't act like its a matter of choice. If I could I'd love to study in the east instead of the daily torture either on EWL or PIE.

Another stupid question: Why is Buona Vista's CCL platform so wide?

Same reason as for everything else. It's an interchange station. More space for more people to move without feeling they are are part of the CNY crowds at Chinatown.

Same reason as for everything else. It's an interchange station. More space for more people to move without feeling they are are part of the CNY crowds at Chinatown.

I don't think Bishan and Serangoon were designed for that, as by observation, they have the same platform widths as other non-interchange CCL stations.

@Selo, those codings only appear in bus stops which feature the 'big' rectangular pole, like the one at BTN, KRG, Orchard Road and perhaps many other CBD bus stops.

Follow-up: Uhhhhh, not really...

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/15250751/Pictures/phoenixlrtbusstoppole.jpg

There is a lot of blue collar workers on trains in the mornings, not just students, beside the fact that lower fares don't make a human more physically compressible and trains less loaded. Ok sure maybe a strictly 2 minutes frequency would be too much before 7am but current 6-7 is a joke.

How packed are the trains between 06:30 and 07:00? Do people sometimes have to let the train leave without them and wait for the next one?

^^ those standing behind (me usually) need to squeeze and some are left behind. Mind you, its Simei - before it reaches Eunos, I can see quite a number of people not making it in..

^^ I think we talk about Circle Line here.

It is still not too bad for me. I can still board the train at Bishan.

I think various companies should consider stagger timings to ensure that there are lesser people than usual at the same time. Just my thought.......

^^ And same for schools. But in that case frequencies must be more uniform to avoid overwhelming after peak hours. Anyways end of OT from my side.

those standing behind (me usually) need to squeeze and some are left behind. Mind you, its Simei - before it reaches Eunos, I can see quite a number of people not making it in..

Whether we're talking about the CCL, the EWL, or any other line, if people are being left behind then at least one more train needs to be added.

I don't think Bishan and Serangoon were designed for that, as by observation, they have the same platform widths as other non-interchange CCL stations.
I would have thought that you would have noticed that the set-up at each station you have mentioned is different. With that, no stations are fully alike. You will notice that Serangoon and Bishan have 5 and 4 escalators placed at one side of the CCL platform. Buona Vista, on the other hand, has a cross-configuration. That is probably why it needs more space as well. Also, land constraints could play a part. Buona Vista is built beneath North Buona Vista Road. Wouldn't it have been easier to build the retaining walls at the sides of the road before excavating? Saves a lot of road diversion mess if you ask me. Many factors could have affected the size and width of the station and not all are known or available to us. You might want to ask sgmrtbuilder by posting in this thread and addressing him.

I would have thought that you would have noticed that the set-up at each station you have mentioned is different. With that, no stations are fully alike. You will notice that Serangoon and Bishan have 5 and 4 escalators placed at one side of the CCL platform. Buona Vista, on the other hand, has a cross-configuration. That is probably why it needs more space as well. Also, land constraints could play a part. Buona Vista is built beneath North Buona Vista Road. Wouldn't it have been easier to build the retaining walls at the sides of the road before excavating? Saves a lot of road diversion mess if you ask me. Many factors could have affected the size and width of the station and not all are known or available to us. You might want to ask sgmrtbuilder by posting in this thread and addressing him.

@mrtfreak: NE10-NE13 were also built beneath Upper Serangoon Road. It has a flyover above the road. Probably CCL was overbudgeted (I read the first few pages of this thread) so to save money CCL5 was built on the side of the road, and same goes for Buona Vista.
@everyone else: Why is CC29's Platform A separated from Platform B by plantrooms and such?

Another stupid question: Why is Buona Vista's CCL platform so wide?


Buona Vista CCL is a CD Shelter. They need physical floor space at the public platform & concourse areas for shelter occupants & the numerous sets of dry toilets.

Some CCL news. :)

http://i44.tinypic.com/14iid87.jpg

Summary: Ms Saw defending SMRT, LTA barely acknowledging crowds and focusing on DTL, Ms Saw defending SMRT again, praise for CCL.

It's Saw Phaik Hwa, what had you expect?

If I have a Death Note notebook her name could be among the first I could write down.

DTL 3 carriages is also a mistake imo. Given how crowded Singapore has become it is not a choice of more lines or more carriages. It should be both.

^^ It's a massive error IMO and probably reveals an utter lack of coordination between the transport and immigration planners. At least I hope it is an error and not a deliberate, negligent cost cutting at the expense of commuters. Medium capacity rail lines have absolutely no place in major trunk corridors in a city as dense as Singapore...

I presume that LTA initially envisioned BTL to link up with DTE at Nicoll Highway and Promenade, thus the three car length to fit with CCL's design. :)

The reason LTA constantly hammers into public consciousness now is it was due to lack of space. But sgmrtbuilder did mention four car trains were possible and the reality for CCL now and DTL soon is a massive crunch up.

Still, why must SMRT only implement crowd preventive measures at Bishan a week after CCL4/5's opening? Any fool could see the backlog of Buona Vista and Serangoon combined with 1 min frequency on the NSL would result in utter chaos.

Monitor the situation? Riiiiiiiiight. :lol:

Any fool could see the backlog of Buona Vista and Serangoon combined with 1 min frequency on the NSL would result in utter chaos.

I guess that makes me less omniscient than a fool because I failed to predict the "utter chaos". It really seems to me that the current traffic patterns are such that the congestion on the CCL could be entirely solved by more CCL trains without any need for 4-car trains on the CCL.

Sorry mcarling, while I appreciated the crowd control being implemented by SMRT, the fact the it took the Minister to visit Bishan for SMRT to do something irks me.

The NSL crowds had always been tremendous at the CCL platform heading towards Dhoby Ghaut. Back then, trains were much emptier having just arrived from the terminal so fuss was minimal. SMRT should have realized the Buona Vista crowds would cause chaos.

I am arguing that SMRT's efficiency typically revolves around waiting for complains before solving them. The staff of the stations should be given authority to be more vocal towards management, not sterile robots simply doing their programmed tasks.

Sorry mcarling, while I appreciated the crowd control being implemented by SMRT, the fact the it took the Minister to visit Bishan for SMRT to do something irks me.
Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that more CCL trains were already on order.

The NSL crowds had always been tremendous at the CCL platform heading towards Dhoby Ghaut. Back then, trains were much emptier having just arrived from the terminal so fuss was minimal. SMRT should have realized the Buona Vista crowds would cause chaos.
Perhaps, but I really never expected so many EWL passengers would transfer to the CCL at Buona Vista and go to and beyond Bishan. Obviously, there would be some, but I find the number amazing.

I am arguing that SMRT's efficiency typically revolves around waiting for complains before solving them. The staff of the stations should be given authority to be more vocal towards management, not sterile robots simply doing their programmed tasks.
This is a cultural problem and SMRT's corporate culture could be better in this regard. The change needs to come from the top and you're quite right that SMRT management need to encourage suggestions from the staff who interact directly with the public.

Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that more CCL trains were already on order.

That is the long term solution. However, they are arriving in 2015. It's a little too uncomfortably close to the 2016 GE. (Politics will forever be tied up in this...)

Even so, it is LTA ordering the new sets, not SMRT. :)

Perhaps, but I really never expected so many EWL passengers would transfer to the CCL at Buona Vista and go to and beyond Bishan. Obviously, there would be some, but I find the number amazing.

Well, if my school is in Yio Chu Kang and I live close to Buona Vista, there is no way I am going to cram with the crowds at Jurong East. I suspect most commuters are also taking CCL to avoid the EWL crowds in hopes of a faster journey.

Perhaps, but I really never expected so many EWL passengers would transfer to the CCL at Buona Vista and go to and beyond Bishan. Obviously, there would be some, but I find the number amazing.

This is a cultural problem and SMRT's corporate culture could be better in this regard. The change needs to come from the top and you're quite right that SMRT management need to encourage suggestions from the staff who interact directly with the public.
In the ST article yesterday, it was hinted that the numbers taking the CCL caught LTA/SMRT by surprise.

I was hoping that by reigning in SG Trains, there would be some improvement as those guys are truly trainspotters in the physical sense and their advice from the ground (if there's indeed a two-way conversation between them and SMRT/LTA) would have been useful. However, it seems like the intention, at least from SMRT and LTA, is control, not conversation. In that sense, it's a pity.


I am arguing that SMRT's efficiency typically revolves around waiting for complains before solving them. The staff of the stations should be given authority to be more vocal towards management, not sterile robots simply doing their programmed tasks.
You've to understand that SMRT's oppression towards its employees and indirectly Ms Saw's appointment as CEO, was the direct result of clamping down on the employees, particularly the drivers, who in the 90s, almost took commuters hostage. Yes, it's been a while but I think SMRT is still steeped in that mindset.

I don't mean to be discriminatory but with the company being the beneficiary of so many ITE students of which most ended up there for a reason, it's hard to justify why the management would even want to open up their ears to them.

it is LTA ordering the new sets, not SMRT.
Are you blaming SMRT for that?

Well, if my school is in Yio Chu Kang and I live close to Buona Vista, there is no way I am going to cram with the crowds at Jurong East. I suspect most commuters are also taking CCL to avoid the EWL crowds in hopes of a faster journey.
Sure, but I doubt that use case is a major component of the crowds we're seeing at Bishan. The use case that worries me is people who live in the west changing from EWL and DTL2 to CCL at Buona Vista and Botanic Gardens and then riding the CCL all the way to Marina Bay. Many people doing that will result in serious crowding. Hopefully enough will figure out that it'll be better to take the DTL to Bayfront and switch there to the CCL.

Are you blaming SMRT for that?


Sure, but I doubt that use case is a major component of the crowds we're seeing at Bishan. The use case that worries me is people who live in the west changing from EWL and DTL2 to CCL at Buona Vista and Botanic Gardens and then riding the CCL all the way to Marina Bay. Many people doing that will result in serious crowding. Hopefully enough will figure out that it'll be better to take the DTL to Bayfront and switch there to the CCL.

I'm sure that will hardly happen. People who already on board a train that becomes crowded and just 15mins from their destination will not transfer to another train that takes another 40mins to their destination. On the other hand, people who have to transfer to another line that is already crowded may choose to continue on the line where it is less crowded at the boarding point, even if it takes 10mins longer, but there is a limit of around 15mins.

It's like on the NSL, Dhoby Ghaut is the absolute limit where commuters will board a southbound train and turn back at Marina Bay in order to beat the crowd and get a seat.

In the ST article yesterday, it was hinted that the numbers taking the CCL caught LTA/SMRT by surprise.

I was hoping that by reigning in SG Trains, there would be some improvement as those guys are truly trainspotters in the physical sense and their advice from the ground (if there's indeed a two-way conversation between them and SMRT/LTA) would have been useful. However, it seems like the intention, at least from SMRT and LTA, is control, not conversation. In that sense, it's a pity.


You've to understand that SMRT's oppression towards its employees and indirectly Ms Saw's appointment as CEO, was the direct result of clamping down on the employees, particularly the drivers, who in the 90s, almost took commuters hostage. Yes, it's been a while but I think SMRT is still steeped in that mindset.

I don't mean to be discriminatory but with the company being the beneficiary of so many ITE students of which most ended up there for a reason, it's hard to justify why the management would even want to open up their ears to them.

Two-way communication? Train faults gets repaired via SGT, but get the message up to management level? Impossible.

That is the long term solution. However, they are arriving in 2015. It's a little too uncomfortably close to the 2016 GE. (Politics will forever be tied up in this...)

Even so, it is LTA ordering the new sets, not SMRT. :)

Not ordered yet.

The tender for additional trains (Increasing System Capacity of North-East Line (Trains) C751C and Increasing System Capacity of Circle Line (Trains) C830C)) has not been awarded and will be in Fiscal Year 2011-2012.

That is why in time to come, we'll see why DTL will function better with 73 trainsets in spite of the the nay-sayers complaining how "badly-designed" it is. The trains in all the existing MRT lines are in short supply, and the lack of time for routine maintenance will take its toll on the CCL rolling stock very quickly, similar to the situation at NSEWL.

Aside from all the serious discussions, some updates of Promenade and Bayfront's progress. :)

DTL - Promenade
DTL works at PMN started beside the PSC since last week
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/393393_284101401623309_100000703554948_913493_389991114_n.jpg
There's some over at exit A too
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/320639_284101564956626_100000703554948_913495_1229284776_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/386611_284101681623281_100000703554948_913496_1269618060_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/381770_284101794956603_100000703554948_913498_1944481770_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/312040_284101851623264_100000703554948_913499_1030700354_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/380864_284102001623249_100000703554948_913500_1339090419_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/381733_284102124956570_100000703554948_913501_1985262939_n.jpg

CCLe / DTL - Bayfront Exit A
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/297185_284102204956562_100000703554948_913502_1340978509_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/301996_284102278289888_100000703554948_913503_1539773412_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/388153_284102378289878_100000703554948_913504_1564898267_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/388282_284102461623203_100000703554948_913505_1112981103_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/383934_284102571623192_100000703554948_913506_1484117073_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/311788_284102664956516_100000703554948_913508_1755667527_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/391189_284102781623171_100000703554948_913509_1617424791_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/383803_284103024956480_100000703554948_913510_1145742659_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/391521_284103121623137_100000703554948_913511_1993059880_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/307735_284103191623130_100000703554948_913512_696485814_n.jpg

Exit B
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/314490_284103314956451_100000703554948_913513_360964608_n.jpg
MBS link
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/312023_284103414956441_100000703554948_913515_986066543_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/316180_284103531623096_100000703554948_913517_1221473517_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/316088_284103638289752_100000703554948_913518_657613110_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/315603_284103731623076_100000703554948_913520_941459220_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/384791_284103814956401_100000703554948_913521_553051555_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/375060_284103898289726_100000703554948_913522_390117251_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/311862_284104014956381_100000703554948_913524_2104541344_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/316902_284104118289704_100000703554948_913526_744211891_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/380295_284104278289688_100000703554948_913528_641869605_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/386140_284104208289695_100000703554948_913527_168999544_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/302289_284104368289679_100000703554948_913529_561961539_n.jpg

Why is the DT16 so light? LTA!!

Thanks a lot!! :D

Nice!! Thanks for the pics!! It looks like it is going well. :)

Wow. So much more than I thought was there. Good job! Near bus stop #2, there are more dry risers actually. Between Bayfront and Promenade. :) The Exit details seem to be fairly new.

Thanks Selo and Mith. mrtfreak I know which DRs you're referring to, they're covered in bushes along the side of the road. There isn't a direct pavement to it hence I couldn't get any pictures. You can see it while travelling along the road though.

Yup yup. :) I guess Bayfront will have at least 4 exits? One is the bus stop #3, another is Exit B near bus stop #2. The third leads to the high-end shops near the casino... Bvlgari side I think and the fourth will be near the convention centre and sampan ride area.

Four? I only spotted two...

Are you blaming SMRT for that?

No, I am not. The new trains were first announced before CCL4/5...so it had no relevance to the failure to ensure crowd control at Bishan.

Two (Exit A and B) are the ones that can be seen from the surface. I know of one underground exit towards the casino which can be seen in my photos. Is there another leading towards the CC? I recall the plans only showing 3 entrances.

... the failure to ensure crowd control at Bishan.
That makes it sound like people were pushed onto the tracks, crushed or trampled to death. As far as I know, the worst thing that's happened with crowding on the CCL is that some passengers have had to wait 7 minutes for the next train after not being able to get on a packed train. That's suboptimal, but it's hardly a "failure". 50 years ago, commuters often had to wait an hour for a bus with free space.

It experienced a 10 mins frequency on one occasion. Though it lasted only a few hours...I would have deployed additional manpower to Bishan simply because I would have predicted the intensified crowds as a result of the extension of the line.

I would have deployed additional manpower to Bishan simply because I would have predicted the intensified crowds as a result of the extension of the line.

I don't want to pay the higher fares that would be needed to employ the extra staff. I think the money would be better spent on an extra train.

the shade of blue representing DTL on the signages captured by the camera is very different from the one seen by the naked eye. there is nearly no contrast visible on the DT16 "logo" when seen from some distance away.

Some CCL news. :)

http://i44.tinypic.com/14iid87.jpg

Summary: Ms Saw defending SMRT, LTA barely acknowledging crowds and focusing on DTL, Ms Saw defending SMRT again, praise for CCL.

They have always been good in foresight and planning for the future, but seems like these few years, there have been lots of poor infrastructure planning. They didnt expect sg's population to grow to 5 million in a short span of few years.

That makes it sound like people were pushed onto the tracks, crushed or trampled to death. As far as I know, the worst thing that's happened with crowding on the CCL is that some passengers have had to wait 7 minutes for the next train after not being able to get on a packed train. That's suboptimal, but it's hardly a "failure". 50 years ago, commuters often had to wait an hour for a bus with free space.
As you said, its 50 years ago.

Four? I only spotted two...

Two (Exit A and B) are the ones that can be seen from the surface. I know of one underground exit towards the casino which can be seen in my photos. Is there another leading towards the CC? I recall the plans only showing 3 entrances.

One:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/383934_284102571623192_100000703554948_913506_1484117073_n.jpg

Two:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/311862_284104014956381_100000703554948_913524_2104541344_n.jpg

Three (Convention Centre):

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/315504_10150325067758244_599223243_8145287_2026028393_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/315504_10150325067758244_599223243_8145287_2026028393_n.jpg

Four (Casino high-end shops):

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/308315_10150325067923244_599223243_8145288_1074829465_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/308315_10150325067923244_599223243_8145288_1074829465_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/308665_10150325068143244_599223243_8145290_1593886290_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/308665_10150325068143244_599223243_8145290_1593886290_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/314937_10150325068348244_599223243_8145291_572610945_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/314937_10150325068348244_599223243_8145291_572610945_n.jpg

^^ Thanks, I didn't bother entering MBS that day, simply stayed outside as I was unsure if I could enter. :)

I don't want to pay the higher fares that would be needed to employ the extra staff. I think the money would be better spent on an extra train.

How would diverting more manpower to the platform result in increase of fares? Wouldn't this result in fare hikes being attributed to new lines every year?

The fare hikes in the last few years were never (officially anyway) related to the extension of the CCL anyhow.

In the end, SMRT still stationed permanent staff at the platform, so I highly doubt it is related? It is just that they had poor senses of foreshadowing.

^^ I agree with mcarling in a way.

If you're looking at manpower point of view, I think there's nothing the staff can do except perhaps tell passengers to stop taking the escalators to the platform.

^^ I agree with mcarling in a way.

If you're looking at manpower point of view, I think there's nothing the staff can do except perhaps tell passengers to stop taking the escalators to the platform.
I had this idea once: put shutters in front of the escalators.

Thanks for the pics, mrtfreak. I think we already know of the 2 entrances that is directly linked to MBS. :)

How would diverting more manpower to the platform result in increase of fares?
Diverting? If staff were taken from other duties, then maybe those other duties didn't need to be performed. If staff were called to work overtime or those other duties did need to be performed, then there was an expense increase.

^^ I agree with mcarling in a way.

If you're looking at manpower point of view, I think there's nothing the staff can do except perhaps tell passengers to stop taking the escalators to the platform.
The normal solution to that type of problem is for the escalators in the direction of the crowded platform to automatically stop. That normally slows the passengers enough to alleviate the overcrowding. In some places, the escalators slow down as the platform begins to become crowded and stops if it gets worse. No additional staff are required. It's easy for automated systems to detect platform crowding and control the escalators as appropriate.

Hmm, I must admit I did not thought of the escalator solution. But people will still flood down the escalators.

I am not sure if you are aware, but even two attentive staff members preventing people from entering the trains when they are departing will solve the problem. I am not referring to dozens.

That was what SMRT did, but the implementation was delayed. That's my whole point. They had to wait for TM to analyze the situation before solving it - a whole week later.

circleline4, that was one of the most amazing set of pictures you posted :)

I must admit I did not thought of the escalator solution. But people will still flood down the escalators.
The real world data says otherwise. It's more like a trickle than a flood. It would solve the platform crowding problem, but it would create a new crowd at the top of the escalators.

I am not sure if you are aware, but even two attentive staff members preventing people from entering the trains when they are departing will solve the problem.
Now I have no idea how you are defining "the problem." I see two problems here. One problem is that trains are departing full and leaving passengers behind. The other problem is that the platforms are too crowded. The optimal solution is more trains. Controlling passenger flow can alleviate the second problem only by making the first problem worse or moving the crowding to another part of the station. Some systems would close the entrances to the station (making all the fare gates exit only) when the platforms get too crowded.

That was what SMRT did, but the implementation was delayed. That's my whole point. They had to wait for TM to analyze the situation before solving it - a whole week later.
If it were fully privatized, competitive, and minimally regulated, then the decision would have taken hours or minutes. If it had been fully governmental or a heavily regulated private monopoly, then the decision would have taken months. Singapore's moderately regulated, semi-competitive, semi-privatized duopoly performed in between the best and worst extremes. No surprise.

Thanks for the pics, mrtfreak. I think we already know of the 2 entrances that is directly linked to MBS. :)
Yup, just that Selo didn't get what I meant by 4 exits... So was helping out.

Some news of a Park & Ride scheme for the Circle Line. :)


More Park & Ride lots near 8 Circle Line MRT stations
Posted: 09 November 2011 1222 hrs

SINGAPORE: Car owners now have more than 740 lots across 12 Park and Ride (P&R) sites near 8 Circle Line (CCL) MRT stations to choose from.

Besides the lots near the Bishan, Buona Vista, Marymount, Mountbatten and Serangoon CCL MRT stations, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) recently added two P&R car parks near Farrer Road and Stadium CCL stations.

From December 1, two more car parks near Telok Blangah CCL station will be available.

With the latest additions, the total number of P&R sites available island-wide increases to 45 with over 4,900 lots, up from 41 P&R sites with 4,800 lots.

Sales of P&R sets, which comprise a P&R ticket and a season parking ticket, for use in December will start on November 15.

The LTA said it'll continue to work with car park owners to expand the P&R scheme while balancing the parking needs of the various users of the car park, such as the residents, businesses and visitors.

- CNA/cc


http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1164277/1/.html

Hi Guys,

Just wondering if anyone knows how finished the extension is? I'm planning to drop by SG for a few days in Jan and am debating whether or not to stay at the Sands. On one hand I really want that view. On the other, I'd like to be close to the MRT so if it's not going to be ready I might be better to stay elsewhere.

^^ From what was unveiled (or at least as far as I know) it's some undetermined date in January. It's just not confirmed yet. If you decide to stay at MBS and it doesn't open yet anyways, you can still take CCL from promenade station, about 5-10 minutes walk away or take buses. The place is not as remote as it may seem but true that it won't be as convenient yet.

Hi Guys,

Just wondering if anyone knows how finished the extension is? I'm planning to drop by SG for a few days in Jan and am debating whether or not to stay at the Sands. On one hand I really want that view. On the other, I'd like to be close to the MRT so if it's not going to be ready I might be better to stay elsewhere.

MBS is where you should stay as Promenade Stn is a 5-10mins scenic walk away. Bayfront Stn at MBS (CCLe - Circle Line Extension) will also be completed in Jan 2012 though the actual date is not confirmed.
From the other side of MBS, you can talk a 20mins walk thru the MB Link Mall underground airconditioned mall to Raffles Place MRT. Enjoy your stay.

THREAD BUMP!!
Why does Kent Ridge have a Farrer Road-style platform?

Those 2 stations are located in the vicinity of hills. Exit A and B at FRR is located at road level (on the hill) while the market and housing estates are on the plain. In a way the concourse level is at ground level (which is why KRG is able to have the NUH exit on the same level as the concourse), hence the FRR/KRG style platform featuring the long escalator and beams spanning across the platform.

Just some minor updates...

RATIS at certain stations still malfunctioning, after over a month. What on earth is SMRT doing?

Secondly, certain stations RATIS do not display destination numbers.

Just some minor updates...

RATIS at certain stations still malfunction, after over a month. What on earth is SMRT doing?

Trying to squeeze more money from us so their CEO, Saw Phaik Hwa, can enjoy more hair recolouring sessions and 100-course luxury dinners.

Just some minor updates...

RATIS at certain stations still malfunctioning, after over a month. What on earth is SMRT doing?

Secondly, certain stations RATIS do not display destination numbers.
Erm... It was fine to me when I took the last train last night.

http://i41.tinypic.com/2h3cwv4.jpg
http://i44.tinypic.com/4gngpe.jpghttp://i42.tinypic.com/15qyzag.jpg
http://i40.tinypic.com/10dz8kn.jpg
http://i43.tinypic.com/f9fclt.jpg

I visited Bukit Brown MRT Station earlier. The atmosphere was really surreal and silent.

I visited Bukit Brown MRT Station earlier. The atmosphere was really surreal and silent.
Did you manage to deduce where the platforms were? :P

Nope, it was very silent. I am not sure if those structures are even exits or ventilation shafts.

I don't think platforms, or even the structure for platforms, are built yet. It is most likely only the tunnels have been dug. See this third photo. The fire preventive measures only cover the trackway. :)

from what I understand from a previous article on Bukit Brown, the station box is already built, but only the essential electrical and mechanical structures have been fitted. all that separates the station and the tracks is the wall.

Hmm, could you link the article?

^^ its from too long back for me to find it though. I do think its mentioned on this thread if I am not wrong...

The answer is actually staring right infront of us. Here are 2 shots from Google Earth Historical Images showing the construction of Bukit Brown and the Pasir Panjang cripple siding.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/302552_287685274598255_100000703554948_924884_956836692_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/376215_287685444598238_100000703554948_924885_570630528_n.jpg
Using the PPJ siding as a constant, the width of the excavated site for a norm siding is 11.67, lets say ~12m. Over at BKB, the excavated width is almost twice as large at ~25m. This not only proves that provisions for the platform structures of 5m were built, but also provides us with nearly 100% concrete evidence (aside from physical evidence seen from the train or whatever) that BKB will have a side platform configuration since the siding itself remains the same width.

(ignore that norton message pop up btw)

Unfortunately although I believe BKB may be side platform, this is a weak proof. All MRT stations along CCL are at least 25m wide. This includes 1m thick retaining walls, 4m of track area per direction, 3-4m of proper platform area per direction, and 8m for circulation at the centre, or 4m per side for side config, including staircases and escalators. Going by your explanation, the excavation for BKB will need to be at least 36m.

Well the 2 excavated sites at upper/cross street have a maximum width of ~15m, and they're both sides too. Going by the specifications you mentioned and how both lines are similar, is the 15m with possible?

I think the bare min is 20m for Upper Cross St, that's bcoz the escalators are on the ends.

I'm pretty sure station boxes are built regardless of whether they are going to be operational on the line opening. Just that we wouldn't have another Buangkok or Woodleigh where all the fittings were in.

Thanks for the photos Selo. And excellent research by circleline4. I think that sandstorm is right here. After the fiasco of the NEL, where Potong Pasir and Punggol stations were slated as shell stations too... I don't think future stations would ever be fully constructed. At most, we would get a station box like the one for DT4.

http://i41.tinypic.com/2h3cwv4.jpg
http://i44.tinypic.com/4gngpe.jpghttp://i42.tinypic.com/15qyzag.jpg
http://i40.tinypic.com/10dz8kn.jpg
http://i43.tinypic.com/f9fclt.jpg

I visited Bukit Brown MRT Station earlier. The atmosphere was really surreal and silent.

Looks like an entrance to a secret underground base :banana:

Maybe an auxiliary underground base of MINDEF or some organization/group :)

Looks like an entrance to a secret underground base :banana:

Maybe an auxiliary underground base of MINDEF or some organization/group :)

No it's not. It's Bukit Brown station.

He's joking, Lucas. :lol:

Thanks for the photos Selo. And excellent research by circleline4. I think that sandstorm is right here. After the fiasco of the NEL, where Potong Pasir and Punggol stations were slated as shell stations too... I don't think future stations would ever be fully constructed. At most, we would get a station box like the one for DT4.

If I were to don my conspiracy theorist cap, I would say that Caldecott was to remain shut as LTA desired to confirm the TSL alignment before embarking on an interchange connectivity.

But somewhere along the road, some huge matter was resolved, enabling it's opening.

If HPV and Caldecott were to go along with BKB, it's kinda ironic that the most controversial station was designed side. Were the former two designed to have island platforms?

What year did LTA ordered the two rescued anyway? 2009?

I believe they were announced as to be fully completed in 2008 together with the announcement of the stage 3 opening date. You may check the records for accuracy.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2445/4088596689_23ac85793e_z.jpg

but the signboards put up by LTA for C854 already indicated that Thomson (Caldecott) was meant to be fully fitted out as a station, and i remember seeing the same thing for C856 for West Coast (Haw Par Villa), so i think the decision to fully fit out the 2 stations was made between the initial public announcement of CCL4 & 5 and the calling of tenders to build the stations, just that it wasn't announced then.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2445/4088596689_23ac85793e_z.jpg

but the signboards put up by LTA for C854 already indicated that Thomson (Caldecott) was meant to be fully fitted out as a station, and i remember seeing the same thing for C856 for West Coast (Haw Par Villa), so i think the decision to fully fit out the 2 stations was made between the initial public announcement of CCL4 & 5 and the calling of tenders to build the stations, just that it wasn't announced then.

Probably. However, we need our friends in high places to confirm this.

He's joking, Lucas. :lol:



If I were to don my conspiracy theorist cap, I would say that Caldecott was to remain shut as LTA desired to confirm the TSL alignment before embarking on an interchange connectivity.

But somewhere along the road, some huge matter was resolved, enabling it's opening.

If HPV and Caldecott were to go along with BKB, it's kinda ironic that the most controversial station was designed side. Were the former two designed to have island platforms?

What year did LTA ordered the two rescued anyway? 2009?

Controversial?
Why?

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2445/4088596689_23ac85793e_z.jpg

but the signboards put up by LTA for C854 already indicated that Thomson (Caldecott) was meant to be fully fitted out as a station, and i remember seeing the same thing for C856 for West Coast (Haw Par Villa), so i think the decision to fully fit out the 2 stations was made between the initial public announcement of CCL4 & 5 and the calling of tenders to build the stations, just that it wasn't announced then.
Long time no see! :) Good observation there. I believe that BKB is the only one that mentioned RTS structure. There may be some worth in that phrasing.

He's joking, Lucas. :lol:



If I were to don my conspiracy theorist cap, I would say that Caldecott was to remain shut as LTA desired to confirm the TSL alignment before embarking on an interchange connectivity.

But somewhere along the road, some huge matter was resolved, enabling it's opening.

If HPV and Caldecott were to go along with BKB, it's kinda ironic that the most controversial station was designed side. Were the former two designed to have island platforms?

What year did LTA ordered the two rescued anyway? 2009?
As far as I remember, Caldecott was always planned to be fitted out. If anything was a problem, it'd probably would be with issues over the NSE alignment rather than TSL.

As far as I remember, Caldecott was always planned to be fitted out. If anything was a problem, it'd probably would be with issues over the NSE alignment rather than TSL.
It was first announced as a future station with the initial CCL4 & 5 alignment announcement.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is pleased to announce that it will be building the 4th and 5th Stages of Circle Line (CCL). These two stages will extend the CCL by another 17 kilometres and will stretch from Marymount Road to HarbourFront Centre.

...

The three stations at Toa Payoh Rise, Jalan Mashor and West Coast Highway are earmarked as future stations. The areas around these three designated sites are not fully developed at the moment. These stations will therefore be built as and when developments around these stations take place. However, structural provisions will be made now so as to enable easy construction of the stations when they are finally built.
http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=925

If you're into conspiracy theories.... CDT and HPV were then announced as shell structures so that it wouldn't seem odd when BKB was built as a shell in the middle of nowhere.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2445/4088596689_23ac85793e_z.jpg

but the signboards put up by LTA for C854 already indicated that Thomson (Caldecott) was meant to be fully fitted out as a station, and i remember seeing the same thing for C856 for West Coast (Haw Par Villa), so i think the decision to fully fit out the 2 stations was made between the initial public announcement of CCL4 & 5 and the calling of tenders to build the stations, just that it wasn't announced then.


Sorry - you're not correct. Back in 2004 when the 3 x CCL4&5 Contracts were awarded, all 3 stations were initially meant to be shell stations - i.e. with no E&M / Architectural fit-out works. The decision to fit-out Caldecott & Haw Par Villa was taken much later - if i recall, in 2007. Given the total lack of anything around Bukit Brown, this remained a shell station.

^^ Nice, thanks for the info. :)

http://i39.tinypic.com/121wd9y.jpg

Nice work Selo, tinypic feature?

Erm. No. It's really emitting all three colours. Just thought I would post as I have never seen blue or red being used.

I think he was asking whether that GIF was made from tinypic. :)

It's not a gif, when I inspect element they are 3 separate jpg. That's why I asked :)

Oh. Everything I do with my Photos is with Photoscape. It can render images into a GIF loop too.

Also, it's time to camp at Promenade station, free people. :)

It's not a gif, when I inspect element they are 3 separate jpg. That's why I asked :)

Tinypic serves all image file with a .jpg extension even if they are gifs or pngs. :)

Alright, RATIS at Tai Seng, Botanic Gardens, Serangoon and Kent Ridge is not repaired yet. I am losing patience with SMRT.

It has been nearly 79 days.

Knowing SMRT and Saw Phaik Hwa, it will probably never be repaired. The money for repairing it has probably gone to Saw Phaik Hwa's hair.

Alright, RATIS at Tai Seng, Botanic Gardens, Serangoon and Kent Ridge is not repaired yet. I am losing patience with SMRT.

It has been nearly 79 days.
Serangoon's RATIS kept flashing the usual thing when a train arrives. I had assumed, on your word, that it was faulty, but when I took it at 11pm yesterday, it DOES come soon.

ddes, it definitely is faulty. Stand there for 10 mins. All it does is blink.

http://i41.tinypic.com/w0kmz5.jpg

Via Bishan now lights up. :)

^^Nice, thanks for the picture.

Anyway, been using Caldecott for quite some time. The RATIS is still blinking for the Harbourfront-bound side.

im trying to picture which station that would be and which part of the station

That's HarbourFront CCL's platform. It seems that SMRT has cordon off the unused platform - but they left a gaping hope at the side which I went through.

Mith - Caldecott too?! Wondering if we could shave Ms Saw's head so she doesn't need hairdo sessions...

By the way, in front the Paya Lebar CCL PSC, there is this HUGE sticker on the ground displaying:

to HarbourFront
via Serangoon
via Bishan
via Buona Vista

to Dhoby Ghaut
via Promenade
via Esplanade

No photos as SMRT staff were looking at me.

That's HarbourFront CCL's platform. It seems that SMRT has cordon off the unused platform - but they left a gaping hope at the side which I went through.

Mith - Caldecott too?! Wondering if we could shave Ms Saw's head so she doesn't need hairdo sessions...

By the way, in front the Paya Lebar CCL PSC, there is this HUGE sticker on the ground displaying:

to HarbourFront
via Serangoon
via Bishan
via Buona Vista

to Dhoby Ghaut
via Promenade
via Esplanade

No photos as SMRT staff were looking at me.

I have a photo of that. Although it was taken during peak hour...
http://i40.tinypic.com/jhy4g3.jpg
Sorry it's not very clear.
And do you know what the HBF CCL cordon looks like?

Thanks Lucas. Appreciated. :)

As you know, access to the other platform has three walkways, the middle one is condoned off by red strips of tape with a sign which goes along the line of "no public access" or something. One side is guarded by a permanent SMRT staff, while the other side remains barrier free.

ddes, it definitely is faulty. Stand there for 10 mins. All it does is blink.


agreed. just took CCL from serangoon to buona vista today. RATIS at serangoon blinked and blinked with no time indication for 5mins before the train actually came. still spoilt!

was travelling alone, so stood at the front windows to check out Bukit Brown. an SMRT staff got on at caldecott and stood next to me by the windows and then got off at botanic gardens! in fact, most of the times i pass bukit brown, there is a staff posted by the window. yet, it is not all the time also. any idea why does SMRT do this? it's not really a secret is it?

was travelling alone, so stood at the front windows to check out Bukit Brown. an SMRT staff got on at caldecott and stood next to me by the windows and then got off at botanic gardens! in fact, most of the times i pass bukit brown, there is a staff posted by the window. yet, it is not all the time also. any idea why does SMRT do this? it's not really a secret is it?

The only theory which comes to mind is that they may be there to dissuade people from taking photos.

yet, it is not all the time also. any idea why does SMRT do this? it's not really a secret is it?
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/384854_10150380992058244_599223243_8412642_1901753507_n.jpg

Lights, camera, action!

The more SMRT strives to protect BKB, the more I strive to irritate them to no end. :lol:

Thanks, Jon. :)

The more SMRT strives to protect BKB, the more I strive to irritate them to no end.

In that case, I hope (and expect) that there is nothing at Bukit Brown Station which is justifiably secret.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/384854_10150380992058244_599223243_8412642_1901753507_n.jpg

Lights, camera, action!

At first when I see this pic, I thought a ghost will appear. :nuts:

Edit: Kinda think of it, I can see 2/3 people on the track, kids probably, playing games. XD That's the power of mind tricks.

In that case, I hope (and expect) that there is nothing at Bukit Brown Station which is justifiably secret.

Hehe hence my joke in the other thread that it looks like an entrance to a secret underground base (possibly a secret command centre of MINDEF)

:lol:

mrtfreak, did you take that photo just 5mins after i posted!?

CDT-bound, rear window? :)

wd1. Sorry for missing your earlier post. :)

Yeah, the fact that SMRT is not bothering to repair the RATIS displays even after emailing them about it drives me nuts. Hence my resolve to obstruct their obsession of protecting Bukit Brown, mcarling. :nuts:

The Circle Line extension opening on Jan 14

SINGAPORE: The Circle Line extension, comprising Bayfront and Marina Bay stations, will open on January 14.

Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew announced this at the ground breaking ceremony for Downtown Line 3 on Monday morning.

The third and final stretch of the Downtown Line, comprising 16 stations, will open in 2017.

It will connect residents in the east to the Central Business District.

Mr Lui said this has been a significant year for the rail network, with the opening of the Circle line and completion of upgrading work at Jurong East station.

Mr Lui announced that the new platform at Jurong East station will open in the evenings from 5:00-8:00 pm from December 27.

Mr Lui said this would mean being able to add more train trips, and commuters can also expect easier movement at the station during those hours.

The Circle Line extension opening on Jan 14

SINGAPORE: The Circle Line extension, comprising Bayfront and Marina Bay stations, will open on January 14.

Transport Minister Lui Tuck Yew announced this at the ground breaking ceremony for Downtown Line 3 on Monday morning.

The third and final stretch of the Downtown Line, comprising 16 stations, will open in 2017.

It will connect residents in the east to the Central Business District.

Mr Lui said this has been a significant year for the rail network, with the opening of the Circle line and completion of upgrading work at Jurong East station.

Mr Lui announced that the new platform at Jurong East station will open in the evenings from 5:00-8:00 pm from December 27.

Mr Lui said this would mean being able to add more train trips, and commuters can also expect easier movement at the station during those hours.

Well that's refreshing.

^^ Well I guess it is to be expected as it is a few weeks before CNY. :)

Thanks for the news update :)
It seems that either LTA is still withholding information on the operation mode of CCLe in relation to the rest of CCL, or channelnewsasia did not bother to report it.

Thanks Lucas. Appreciated. :)

As you know, access to the other platform has three walkways, the middle one is condoned off by red strips of tape with a sign which goes along the line of "no public access" or something. One side is guarded by a permanent SMRT staff, while the other side remains barrier free.

They could have saved $ and just built HBF with 1 platform, with provision for another BKB-style.

They could have saved $ and just built HBF with 1 platform, with provision for another BKB-style.
I don't think that could be an option. It's built into Vivo City, so it's an all or nothing...

They could have saved $ and just built HBF with 1 platform, with provision for another BKB-style.

ddes is right. If and when CCL Stage 6 gets build, they're not going to rip open the HarbourFront area again just to build another platform. It's do it now, or never do it.

Same news on CCLe opening, LTA press release. No actual announcement of the operating mode, but LTA did mentioned that the frequency will be 7min at the 2 stations.

http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=289gjpnks1d1xue5op98xv06ulyy4b1cnrc6eyyj89e413p2r7

Factsheet on Circle Line Extension

The Circle Line (CCL) will be extended by another two stations when Bayfront and Marina Bay stations open for passenger service on Saturday 14 January 2012.

The CCL extension, like the rest of the CCL, will be a fully underground, automated rail transit system that will extend from Promenade station via Bayfront station to Marina Bay station, adding a further 2.4km to the rail network.

The two stations will boost connectivity to the Marina Bay area, linking commuters to developments such as the Marina Bay Financial Centre. Trains will run at intervals of seven minutes at these stations.

Bayfront Station

Construction works on the Bayfront station began in November 2007. When operational, the station, located along Bayfront Avenue, will serve as an interchange station for the Circle Line and Downtown Line. The deepest part of the station is at 21 metres and like the City Hall and Raffles Place stations, it will have twin stacked platforms connecting to Marina Bay station, as well as the future Downtown Line station.

The five entrances of the station will link commuters to the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resorts and Gardens by the Bay.

Marina Bay Station

Construction work on the CCL Marina Bay station began in February 2008. When the station is operational, it will serve as an interchange station connecting the Circle Line to the present North South Line

There will be two entrances to the station. Both entrances have been upgraded to serve both the new and existing Marina Bay stations. Commuters will recognise the station by its 'canopy-like' entrance and reflective pool located outside the station.

Managed to take Sv 93 for the first time during peak hour. All seats were filled up on the bus with no standing passengers. 5 people incl me got off at FRR, with 4 heading to the station and the other transferring buses. Also noted that many working commuters like y2koh uses the CCL and exits at FRR to transit to a southbound bus.

As for the exiting news today, yeah CCLe will open on Saturday, Jan 14. Perhaps we can expect a new year weekend discovery?

Few thing to note from LTA's release:

Bayfront -
The deepest part of the station is at 21 metres. (damn shallow)
The five entrances of the station will link commuters to the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resorts and Gardens by the Bay, which confirms the station layout diagram released by SMRT advertising.

___________________________________________________________________
Picture of Bayfront's interior and Marina Bay's exterior:
http://app.ltgallery.lta.gov.sg/data/0/lta/NR%2028112011%20-%20CCLe%20Factsheet%20Station%20Photos.pdf

The Bayfront picture is taken from the high-end shop exit. exit B can be seen on the left in the photo. The faregates are rolled up, the yellow object u see behind the faregates are probably the escalator maintenance hoardings.

As for other stuff, Holland Village's ascending escalator at the platform has broken down. Out of the 2 at BNV that's spoiled, 1 has resumed operation.

mrtfreak, did you take that photo just 5mins after i posted!?

CDT-bound, rear window? :)
Haha, I guess I did. :) The timing there is the one I took it at. Close, its actually BTN-bound rear window. Set 20 was so hot, no air-con at all...

Photos from the press release

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6417388515_f54fc0ce5b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/y2koh/6417388515/)
News Release (http://www.flickr.com/photos/y2koh/6417388515/) by y2koh (http://www.flickr.com/people/y2koh/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6417388897_6a8845b8d3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/y2koh/6417388897/)
News Release (http://www.flickr.com/photos/y2koh/6417388897/) by y2koh (http://www.flickr.com/people/y2koh/), on Flickr

I don't think that could be an option. It's built into Vivo City, so it's an all or nothing...

No, I meant as a shell.

7min interval.. Any idea how this is going to work out?

3.5 minute frequency throughout the whole line with alternate services in the branches, resulting in 7 mins along the branch sector.

I heavily doubt they can achieve that though. I'd say 8 minute+ frequency, which means SMRT must run 'peak hour services' throughout the entire day.

Bayfront looks AWESOME!

Bayfront looks AWESOME!

Agreed, but to me it doesn't fit in with the design of MBS. Feels like a CCL2 station painted in whiteish colours to me.

It looks awesome indeed, fits in with the design of MBS. I don't know what made you feel that its like a CCL2 station lucas.

Some casual photos I took along the way today.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387390_295891447110971_100000703554948_946950_1893368981_n.jpg
Hi.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/382621_295887120444737_100000703554948_946890_1472649728_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/375290_295891243777658_100000703554948_946947_48814229_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387420_295891167110999_100000703554948_946946_1439068540_n.jpg
I believe when CCLe is up, there'd be a 'to Marina bay via
- Promenade
- Bayfront

Photos from the press release

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6417388515_f54fc0ce5b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/y2koh/6417388515/)
News Release (http://www.flickr.com/photos/y2koh/6417388515/) by y2koh (http://www.flickr.com/people/y2koh/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6417388897_6a8845b8d3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/y2koh/6417388897/)
News Release (http://www.flickr.com/photos/y2koh/6417388897/) by y2koh (http://www.flickr.com/people/y2koh/), on Flickr

Seems that kind of fengshui design that trap all the money out of the gamblers pocket before and after gambling at MBS

:lol::lol:

I believe when CCLe is up, there'd be a 'to Marina bay via
- Promenade
- Bayfront

I wonder if there'll be a "for a shorter route to Harboufront, please take NSL to Raffles Place and transfer to EWL towards Joo Koon, alight at Outram Park and transfer to NEL towards Harboufront." If there is, that whole board can be an AiT. :lol:

7min interval.. Any idea how this is going to work out?

I guess either the Marina Bay branch or the Dhoby Ghaut branch will run as a shuttle service. I would be surprised if there are alternating through trains, but I'm prepared to be wrong.

How will final layout look like at Promenade side?

Just something to add - I am too exhausted right now

7 mins frequencies on the branches? During PEAK hours?! Is LTA underestimating the crowds at Marina Bay like they did with Dhoby Ghaut?

This extension was a mistake from the start, LTA should never have just gone along with "let's just alternate the trains".

7 mins frequencies on the branches? During PEAK hours?! Is LTA underestimating the crowds at Marina Bay like they did with Dhoby Ghaut?
7 minutes may turn out to be a mistake. If so, LTA will fix it. The short-term problem I see is a shortage of trains.

Running either branches as a shuttle service will still result in a reduced frequency, and not to mention that it may even dangerous.

A round trip on the Dhoby Ghaut Branch will take around 12mins, and Marina Bay around 8mins. This means that at least 2-3 trains will be required to maintain freq<5mins. This will still be very taxing on the resources. As there are only 2 available platforms at PMN, an average of 4min frequency on the mainline and branches means that one of the platforms will be seeing a train an average of every 2 mins, and that's discounting any bunching. At peak hours there may be instances where trains will have to wait to enter PMN, and very accurate train timings will be required to reduce such instances.

Agreed, but to me it doesn't fit in with the design of MBS. Feels like a CCL2 station painted in whiteish colours to me.

Considering that both MBS and CCLe began construction at around the same time, in 2006/7, and that MBS had an accelerated project timeline, it would have been impossible for Bayfront to be fundamentally designed to fit MBS. There is a limited extent that ID works can help to achieved that. That said, I still think that the designers had done a pretty decent job to create an atmosphere within the station fitting to the intended use of the surroundings, and the architecture though not exactly contemporary to prevalent styles, is quite timeless I can say.

The article in TODAY regarding the CCLe. :)

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/389480_10150487862362040_671067039_10936291_1177867451_n.jpg
http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/389480_10150487862362040_671067039_10936291_1177867451_n.jpg

Just something to add - I am too exhausted right now

7 mins frequencies on the branches? During PEAK hours?! Is LTA underestimating the crowds at Marina Bay like they did with Dhoby Ghaut?

This extension was a mistake from the start, LTA should never have just gone along with "let's just alternate the trains".
I agree it's a mistake, but the CCLe's SOLE PURPOSE is to serve Marina Bay Sands, so while it is highly likely that while every train will go out reasonably crowded, it's not the end of the world. In addition, I'd say that the fact the CCL will interchange with the NSL twice is probably an unexpected stroke of genius (For shorter route to Bayfront, use the CCL, alight at Promenade, board the Marina Bay bound train at the upper platform. For easier route to Bayfront, take the NSL to Marina Bay and change to the CCL) For many, particularly those living in the west, and to a lesser extent, Orchard area, buses will still be a more direct and in the case of the former, a faster solution than trains.

I disagree LTA underestimated the crowds at Dhoby Ghaut, unless you're referring to the NEL platform which is just a case of bad design than anything else.

Considering that both MBS and CCLe began construction at around the same time, in 2006/7, and that MBS had an accelerated project timeline, it would have been impossible for Bayfront to be fundamentally designed to fit MBS. There is a limited extent that ID works can help to achieved that. That said, I still think that the designers had done a pretty decent job to create an atmosphere within the station fitting to the intended use of the surroundings, and the architecture though not exactly contemporary to prevalent styles, is quite timeless I can say.

What I meant is, it's too clinical. MBS has a warmish feel and I don't want BFT to spoil it.

^^ Nah, I don't think it is going to spoil it. I am sure it would be just nice. :)

Signage sticker is up at Bayfront's exit B. I believe the lighted signboard holder would be placed at the actual entrance to the station itself in the basement, similar to one-north.
http://www.straitstimes.com/STI/STIMEDIA/image/20111129/byfrntmrt-desmondluie.jpg

^^ Nice!! Thnaks for the picture. :)

the CCLe's SOLE PURPOSE is to serve Marina Bay Sands

I don't see that. I expect that during peak hours there will be large numbers of passengers transferring between the CCLe and DTL at Bayfront Station. Commuters headed to Downtown or Telok Ayer station from the NEL will change at Chinatown Station, but I expect passengers coming from most other directions will change from the CCLe at Bayfront Station.

I don't see that. I expect that during peak hours there will be large numbers of passengers transferring between the CCLe and DTL at Bayfront Station. Commuters headed to Downtown or Telok Ayer station from the NEL will change at Chinatown Station, but I expect passengers coming from most other directions will change from the CCLe at Bayfront Station.
For the record, I was referring to the short-term sans DTL. In a hypothetical world without CCLe, the DTL would still get its connection via Promenade. Commuters have been making "difficult" transfer at Outram Park and Dhoby Ghaut, a transfer at Promenade would still have sufficed.

There are a sizable crowd that at Marina Bay station due to Marina Bay Financial Centre, so I don't think the CCL extension is purely for Marina Bay Sands. However once DTL stage one opens, its role will be diminished.

For the record, I was referring to the short-term sans DTL.

I see. I hadn't realized that.

The upcoming Bayfront MRT station has a reported 5 exits and I wonder if one of this will be directly leading to The Shoppes or MBS Convention Center. Has anyone seen a currently boarded up section there and where is it located?

You might want to refer to the update I made 3 weeks ago on the CCL thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=85424965&postcount=5535), or 2 weeks ago on the DTL thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=85796857&postcount=4028).

Yeah, the 3 exits west of the station would lead to the convention center, shoppes, and the high end shopping corridor linking the hotel and the casino right below bayfront avenue.

Just something to add - I am too exhausted right now

7 mins frequencies on the branches? During PEAK hours?! Is LTA underestimating the crowds at Marina Bay like they did with Dhoby Ghaut?

This extension was a mistake from the start, LTA should never have just gone along with "let's just alternate the trains".


I think the whole thing is hair brained, has no proper design & is totally illogical - they should have built CCL6 to create a proper circle & kept the link to DBG as a shuttle service until this little spur is integrated into a future (Holland ?) MRT line - that would make the circle line much more user friendly too & create max. efficiency from the trains. They could have built 'shell' stations in between HBF & Marina Bay or built in provisions to the tunnels. I get so many people asking me why is the Circle Line called 'Circle' when in fact it's a weird horseshoe !! :nuts:

I think the whole thing is hair brained, has no proper design & is totally illogical - they should have built CCL6 to create a proper circle & kept the link to DBG as a shuttle service until this little spur is integrated into a future (Holland ?) MRT line - that would make the circle line much more user friendly too & create max. efficiency from the trains. They could have built 'shell' stations in between HBF & Marina Bay or built in provisions to the tunnels.

I'm generally inclined to agree. I hesitate only because I think the long-term optimal route for the CCL6 will be well south of the AYE through the area now occupied by the container terminal. LTA might be reluctant to disrupt the port operations, though I think it should be possible for the port to work around an MRT construction site.

Ideally, well-integrated shell stations could be built for interchanges between CCL6 and the Seletar Line, ERL, and any other planned lines that might serve the future Keppel-area CBD.

Also, there seems to be political pressure to not build anything in advance of when it will be needed, no matter how strong the reasons for doing so may be. It's difficult to convince the voters that building something before it will be needed is anything other than a waste of money.

I also have doubts about whether the Dhoby Ghaut - Promenade corridor is the ideal terminus for the Holland Line. It might be better for the Holland Line to serve the future Keppel-area CBD.

I think the whole thing is hair brained, has no proper design & is totally illogical - they should have built CCL6 to create a proper circle & kept the link to DBG as a shuttle service until this little spur is integrated into a future (Holland ?) MRT line - that would make the circle line much more user friendly too & create max. efficiency from the trains. They could have built 'shell' stations in between HBF & Marina Bay or built in provisions to the tunnels. I get so many people asking me why is the Circle Line called 'Circle' when in fact it's a weird horseshoe !! :nuts:

CCLe was merely tacked on to provide cross-platform interchange between CCL and DTL. The original plan was to build NCH in a similar manner to PMN, with the BTL using the phantom platforms we know today, and route the BTL there, whereas Bayfront would just be a DTE station. The NCH collapse probably made them change tack, the DTL was hastily planned by joining the BTL, DTE and ERL. In order to still provide the cross-platform interchange, they had to just give CCL a "tail" and CCLe was born. This is why MRB has a contract number of C901 (DTL series). So last time there wasn't this CCLe that made people ask. Though IMO, I'd like the NEL to terminate at DBG, then renovate the HBF-DBG tunnels in order to accommodate CCL trains. (impossible case, I know. :) )
Correct me if I'm wrong.

CCLe was merely tacked on to provide cross-platform interchange between CCL and DTL. The original plan was to build NCH in a similar manner to PMN, with the BTL using the phantom platforms we know today, and route the BTL there, whereas Bayfront would just be a DTE station. The NCH collapse probably made them change tack, the DTL was hastily planned by joining the BTL, DTE and ERL. In order to still provide the cross-platform interchange, they had to just give CCL a "tail" and CCLe was born.

Interesting. How long and many stations is this DTE suppose to be?
Are you saying that originally it is suppose to be a BTL which goes to NCH, PMN and then to Bayfront?

I think most people here believe that the BTL was supposed to interchange with CCL at both Nicoll Highway and Promenade, and terminate there at the phantom tunnels, therefore the tracks don't lead anywhere.

As for the DTE, it was supposed to be a branch of CCL going towards Bayfront, Landmark, Cross St and Chinatown. Bugis was added to it later to combine BTL with this branch, making it the DTL.

I think a while ago one of the forumers drew up a map of the possible alignments of the original lines, including BTL and the old ERL (the rectangular loop that consisted of the current DTL3). Not sure which thread it is in though. =)

There seem to be two RATIS displays at the Bayfront faregates. I wonder why would they require one to point inwards, though

tunnel lights are on today, at least for buona vista - serangoon sector.

however the front windows of the trains are packed with smrt staff...

There seem to be two RATIS displays at the Bayfront faregates. I wonder why would they require one to point inwards, though

For the passengers changing trains?

For the passengers changing trains?
Commuters don't require to go up to the concourse to make their transfers. The only example I can think of is when DTL starts operation in Chinatown.

2 pointing outwards would make sense as 1 shows the CCTV footage, while the other shows the train arrival information. Perhaps we would know the purpose of the 1 in 1 out configuration when Bayfront opens.

Question: Is MRB stacked?
Was on the other side of the wall lately and this topic was thrown into debate.

I think that kind of question should continue to stay on the other side of the wall. :) But over here our answer is no.

No, according to floorplans and past renders, MRB CCL is an island platform. :lol:

I think that kind of question should continue to stay on the other side of the wall. :) But over here our answer is no.
I know, it's lame, and so is the reasoning behind it. I was just looking for confirmation.

No, according to floorplans and past renders, MRB CCL is an island platform. :lol:

I haven't seen any.

In any case, I cannot wait to enter Bayfront and Marina Bay. Somehow, the latter intrigues me more since we have no photos of the interior nor the platform yet.

Lucas, I assure you, it is an island platform....99% confirmed. :)

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=58897697&postcount=2917

I know, it's lame, and so is the reasoning behind it. I was just looking for confirmation.
If it was just your curiosity, then yes, you have rights to seek confirmation here. What I don't wish to happen (and hopefully it didn't) is you acting as a messenger and spreading the info from one wall to the other.

mrtfreak has posted renders of MRB before. I have also linked some floorplans from SMRT's advertising lease. Do read through previous pages of the thread before concluding that you haven't seen any.

If it was just your curiosity, then yes, you have rights to seek confirmation here. What I don't wish to happen (and hopefully it didn't) is you acting as a messenger and spreading the info from one wall to the other.

onemap already tells me it's not. Wait, I don't trust onemap, so here I am.

Onemap screwed up on the Punggol Extension tunnel too... ^^

onemap already tells me it's not. Wait, I don't trust onemap, so here I am.
You can't infer whether the station is stacked, side, island or whatever just by looking at the station's 2D layout on a map, so I've absolutely no idea what you're blabbering about.

I also admire how you totally ignored my post yet quote it to talk about something else.

Found this, does it have anything to do with CCLe?
http://www.smrt.com.sg/advertising_leasing/documents/shop_spaces/MRT/MRB.pdf

You can't infer whether the station is stacked, side, island or whatever just by looking at the station's 2D layout on a map, so I've absolutely no idea what you're blabbering about.

I also admire how you totally ignored my post yet quote it to talk about something else.

Track alignment? And width of station? Never mind, I shall not argue with you anymore.

^^ Sometimes, I seriously think you need to think. Why would they want to have a stacked config in the first place? It is not like Promenade. Seriously, have you been through NS? With that kind of logic, good luck.

Track alignment? And width of station? Never mind, I shall not argue with you anymore.
You should honestly read through what you're posting so as to not make yourself look so, pleasantly speaking, unintelligent. Firstly, CCLe's track alignment has not been drawn out on onemap, hence you're contradicting yourself when you said:
onemap already tells me it's not. Wait, I don't trust onemap, so here I am.
And yes, the station layout of MRB you just linked is the one posted months ago.

What's with the hostility guys? Its just a harmless question he had from reading SGT. Nothing wrong with missing something from a while back. Anyway lucas I believe you found the answer :)

I was wondering, has anyone here spotted a train at CCL HBF's unused platform?

Track alignment? And width of station? Never mind, I shall not argue with you anymore.

Luacs1998, sorry if you are disturbed, I guess it's maybe the weather or something else. But yeah, there is already some very clear confirmation on the layout based on plans that we happen to come by once in a while, and if you are interested I suggest that you can go through the threads to learn a bit more, the forums here is pretty easy to read especially if you turn off the signatures. But I understand for a new user who had not followed the threads it was not so easy to gather information from all the history, it took me sometime to read all the past posts before I first posted here. Or else, there's always the search function.

Hope you will find this place helpful, and in the future you can also contribute positively to the forums.

Firstly, you should listen to y2koh's advice. :) Now, secondly...

Found this, does it have anything to do with CCLe?
http://www.smrt.com.sg/advertising_leasing/documents/shop_spaces/MRT/MRB.pdf

You're looking at the CCLe concourse of Marina Bay station. You can see two sets of escalators going down. Based on other maps of the station (onemap, etc) you can tell that this station is about 45 degrees to the NSL station. So it means that the tracks will follow the length of the station you see, not the breadth. Thus you should be able to infer that the station is of the island platform configuration.

luacs1998, I've done it in a very simple manner for you, if you understand normal station layouts you should be able to infer very quickly without any explanation.
http://i43.tinypic.com/1y0pkg.jpg

luacs1998, I've done it in a very simple manner for you, if you understand normal station layouts you should be able to infer very quickly without any explanation.
http://i43.tinypic.com/1y0pkg.jpg

So, the place you highlighted... that's NSL?
I see the staff lift, plantrooms, etc...

That's CCL

The whole thing you see is the CCL station.

Sent SMRT another email about their RATIS on CCL. If they still refuse to fix it, I will just spam email LTA and ST Forums a thousand times until they fix it.

Getting on my nerves...blinking for all eternity. Poor LCD screen. :ohno:

Sorry to unceremoniously bump the thread, but what's this at MPS?
http://i41.tinypic.com/ve3zi8.jpg

Sorry to unceremoniously bump the thread, but what's this at MPS?


For a moment I thought the shape in the upper left of the image was a trollface. =]

For a moment I thought the shape in the upper left of the image was a trollface. =]
LOL nice one dude!! :lol:

Just got a reply regarding our dear faulty RATIS displays on the CCL...SMRT is "progressively repairing the Ratis Display Panels at the Circle Line Stations, which should be completed by the end of the year."

I guess I can wait since they could have shrugged me off and sent me an automated reply.

^^ I think they are doing something about it. The RATIS at Caldecott for the Haberfront side is just a black background with Harbourfront on it when I passed by today.

No change at Serangoon and Tai Seng though, the HBF with a black screen was also seen at Bishan sometimes.

Tai Seng's RATIS is really weird - it only works when a train pulls in directly from KCD, in which the screen will relieve itself of needlessly flashing Dhoby Ghaut to display the departing timing and a Paya Lebar destination.

Marina Bay CCL is 100% island platform, I witnessed it 2nd hand :) (saw a photo of the platform). The access is through a lower concourse below the CCL platform.

Thanks y2koh, can't wait. :)

Marina Bay CCL is 100% island platform, I witnessed it 2nd hand :) (saw a photo of the platform). The access is through a lower concourse below the CCL platform.

So MRB is the 1st underground station to have its concourse below the platform? Or it's OTP style?

It's only a photo, so I won't be able to make out the entire layout judging from that.

It's only a photo, so I won't be able to make out the entire layout judging from that.

I can try and infer, just post it.

Unfortunately I'm not allowed to, because it contains information that LTA is not ready to release yet. It include matters that are "one of the most elusive of the traditional problems of human culture", which means that they will attract comments from the public that may be deemed unnecessary. ;)

Friend just reported that his train dwelled at Lorong Chuan for 10 mins, anyone knows what is going on?

Seriously? Again... :ohno:

Friend just reported that his train dwelled at Lorong Chuan for 10 mins, anyone knows what is going on?
Dunno. But tunnel lights were on again this morning at 7 plus. My train didn't seem to be manually driven, but could tell something was up. When did we ever get Please Do Not Lean Against The Train Door announcements on CCL4/5? And its not the usual one either. I'm pretty sure between BNV and HLV it went...

*chime* Please Do Not Lean Against The Train Doors.
*pause while travelling quite a distance*
*chime* Next station, Holland Village.

It used to be continuous. Other stations dropped the chime before "next station", but there was definitely still the pause. Trains also seemed to stop following the manual mode operation where they slow down a heck lot and glide a little more before fully stopping. Add that to no train ETA timings being displayed on RATIS at 7am, I found it weird.

Just when we thought CCL was stabalizing, this crap crops up...nice. :ohno:

If SMRT dares to reinstate PDNLATTD, I will force Ms Saw to solve five thousand questions on integration and differentiation.

Maybe they were testing CCLe. :nuts:

Nope, they were repairing the RATIS.

RATIS at Serangoon and Tai Seng have been repaired. :)

Bishan's HBF RATIS is now weird though, instead of blinking yellow and white, it blinks yellow and - of all colours - pink.

http://i42.tinypic.com/db0g8.jpg

Dunno. But tunnel lights were on again this morning at 7 plus. My train didn't seem to be manually driven, but could tell something was up. When did we ever get Please Do Not Lean Against The Train Door announcements on CCL4/5? And its not the usual one either. I'm pretty sure between BNV and HLV it went...

*chime* Please Do Not Lean Against The Train Doors.
*pause while travelling quite a distance*
*chime* Next station, Holland Village.

It used to be continuous. Other stations dropped the chime before "next station", but there was definitely still the pause. Trains also seemed to stop following the manual mode operation where they slow down a heck lot and glide a little more before fully stopping. Add that to no train ETA timings being displayed on RATIS at 7am, I found it weird.

It is always like that. Since that last trip to here in August. Hasn't change much. If I'm correct like yours it went something like

*chime* Please Do Not Lean Against the Train Doors
3 seconds later...
Next station, Bras Basah

Also, unlike yours it did not have another chime for a while. And yes, BTW the announcement is very funny when they pronounce Bras Basah as Braas Bassah. If you ever ride near there again, hear it closely, coz the announcer is so funny at saying same like Promenade too.

Umm, no. We never travelled halfway to Holland Village before hearing the next station announcement. What I meant was that they played the leaning announcement after leaving. Halfway to Holland Village, then they played the next station announcement. But it doesn't really matter.. They have tweaked something, the leaning against the door announcement is back now.

mrtfreak - none of the three sets I took today had that announcement.

Hmm, I'm sure I heard it. And got it on video too...

What set did you took? I was on 25, 26 & 40.

40, 22 and I think 16. Not sure about the last one, positive about the other two.

I am pretty sure I didn't hear it on Set 40... o.O

I didn't record set 40 either.

Sorry - what?

Circle Line disrupted this morning (http://www.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne%2BNews/Singapore/Story/A1Story20111214-316117.html)

Thousands of commuters making their way to work were affected by a disruption at the Circle Line this morning.

SMRT issued an advisory on its website stating that the train services were delayed as of 8.40am.

The statement said: "Train services on the Circle Line are delayed. Passengers can take bus bridging services from Serangoon to One North stations or seek alternative transport."

The cause of the disruption was due possibly to signalling problems.

It was reported that some passengers waited between 10 and 30 minutes for a train.

One commuter told citizen journalism website STOMP: "The delays at the Paya Lebar Circle Line station was ridiculous - the first announcement of a train towards Harbourfront 'arriving in eight minutes' came only after I waited a good five to seven minutes.

"What's worst was that the train did not arrive after eight minutes - we were informed by another announcement that the train will be arriving in 10 minutes."
http://oi40.tinypic.com/ann78y.jpg
:bash:

Was nearly late for my exams, gosh SMRT!!

That message circleline4 posted was only seen at Serangoon for me, Tai Seng, Bartley, Lorong Chuan and Bishan were happily playing advertisements.

All trains were manually driver with mrtfreak's description, but it has resumed to normal services now.

I was on NSL Southbound from 7:55am to 8:30am this morning, and I wasn't feeling very well, so I decided not to alight at Bishan and switch to CCL but stayed on to Somerset to take a bus to my workplace. Boy I'm gald I didn't take CCL.

I was literally panicking as Tai Seng was devoid of trains for nearly 15 mins and my exams were starting in an hour. :lol:

In other news, RATIS is quite wonky at the moment, but BTN and CDT RATIS Displays are still forever arriving.

SMRT. Stopping People, Ending Lives.

:lol: nice one dude (Y)

In other news, RATIS is quite wonky at the moment, but BTN and CDT RATIS Displays are still forever arriving.

Nope, just came back just now. CDT is working fine now.

Ah, thanks, it was blinking relentlessly when I was there this afternoon. :lol:

One other note, Set 17 was flashing "Emergency Communication Cover has been opened, please contact our staff or "something"" when I was on board this afternoon.

http://i39.tinypic.com/5ww8lj.jpg

Set 15 was playing the lean against the doors announcement today. I think trains dwelled at stations longer too.

Trains towards both directions are running at 5min frequency today at the morning peak hours.

Tunnel lights between CDT and BNV towards HBF are switched on too.

Going to joyride on CCL in a few mins, somehow I feel as if I am mocking SMRT when running a full metro line is really an expensive and seriously complicated business fraught with pitfalls such as the me who enjoy criticizing them while having no true idea how the internal structure works.

http://i39.tinypic.com/5ww8lj.jpg

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/3668949/Facebook_Like_Icon_Vector.jpg

Hmm, took set 06 today.The "Do not lean against the train doors" announcement was on. Also, the tunnel lights were on.

I really have no clue why you guys are hearing that announcement, I have not heard it once whenever trains were in automatic mode. :lol:

In any case, CCL was running smoothly today, the chain across the CCLe tunnel appears to have been removed at the upper platform's view.

The chain has been removed a few weeks ago already, soon after I first saw it.

As for the new announcement format..
PnKwC2e86r4
0:35: Please do not lean against the train doors....
0:55: Next Station, Haw Par Villa.

^^ Yup, there is a quite a gap between the door announcement and the station announcement. Previously, it is almost immediately after the door announcement. Anyway, the dwell time for the stations today is about 20 seconds.

The person who brought back PDNLATTD is going to be brutally murdered by a ferocious army of wild cats.

To divert some attention away from the havoc on the NSL breakdown, here's some juicy updates for Bayfront and Marina Bay. My first time attempting night shots, did spent more time getting perfect shots due to the limited lighting. :tongue3:

Exit B
B2 is apparently the Mezz level.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/375322_306726409360808_100000703554948_974037_1589663355_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/391128_306726559360793_100000703554948_974039_360431266_n.jpg

Exit C
There's a new temporary hoarding erected, with a lock to its door now. Hmmm..
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/388745_306726669360782_100000703554948_974040_848596814_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/374352_306726756027440_100000703554948_974041_1622927203_n.jpg

Exit D
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/384716_306726976027418_100000703554948_974045_329026064_n.jpg

Exit E
The exit is all the way at the end, followed by a left turn.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/392245_306727106027405_100000703554948_974047_1416754695_n.jpg

Exit A
Stair-ed side.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/377794_306727246027391_100000703554948_974049_997172155_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/388932_306727382694044_100000703554948_974052_333057927_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/385115_306727526027363_100000703554948_974054_381818921_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/383647_306727682694014_100000703554948_974057_1846640919_n.jpg

Escalator side.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/378994_306727796027336_100000703554948_974059_1651604233_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/393521_306727899360659_100000703554948_974060_426434269_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/385817_306728016027314_100000703554948_974062_1780477973_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/392005_306728129360636_100000703554948_974063_14709572_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/378957_306728249360624_100000703554948_974064_181049994_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/388397_306728336027282_100000703554948_974065_605315390_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/379102_306728466027269_100000703554948_974066_824311208_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/378622_306728579360591_100000703554948_974068_1840600727_n.jpg

Marina Bay
Lights aren't turned on surprisingly.
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/373802_306728729360576_100000703554948_974069_825428176_n.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/386506_306728846027231_100000703554948_974070_1593695138_n.jpg
Overall, it was a fruitful trip - only to face the breakdown on the NSL when I walked to the NSL exit.

For a bigger version of Bayfront's locality map:
http://oi41.tinypic.com/ico8t3.jpg
As expected, the exits are named counter-clockwise.

Whenever you go down, you find something meaningful, you hur...

THANK YOU. :)

LOVE that locality map, the lake at Gardens by the Bay is not updated! Thanks circleline4, very nice sneek peak!

The person who brought back PDNLATTD is going to be brutally murdered by a ferocious army of wild cats.

You've conjured up some unusually violent wishes toward other people lately. I'm starting to worry.

Nah, I just love to express ridiculous emotions to convey my disgust. :lol:

I don't even kill cockroaches, I often shove them onto my window sill...heh.

Thanks for the pics, circleline4. Hope you manage to find your way home. :)

Announcements on the CCL are horribly implemented and announced, someone needs to fix this.

Announcements on the CCL are horribly implemented and announced, someone needs to fix this.

I will bet my life to say that that person will not be Saw Phaik Hwa.

Currently, announcements on lots of CCL trains:

Please do not lean - against the train doors.
Ten Seconds Later
Next Station, Dakota

This results in Dhoby Ghaut's announcement turning into

Please do not lean - against the train doors.
Ten Seconds Later
Next Station, Dhoby Ghaut Interchange, Passengers
Chime Plays
Dhoby Ghaut Interchange, passengers continuing their journey on the NSL or NEL, please alight.

Who reinstated that annoying announcement while screwing the format for announcements? Heck, we might as play play "Welcome to SMRT" instead of reminding folks to mind the gap every time the doors open.

I think it will be nice if they made the please do not lean against train doors announcements in between certain stretches where stations are far apart in four languages instead.

Okay, I took set 02 yesterday. They didn't have the door announcement.

I seriously hope whoever managing the announcements is fired. This is simply unprofessional.

Okay, I took set 02 yesterday. They didn't have the door announcement.
Not all have. 22 also is devoid of the new announcement scheme.

I believe it is slowly being implemented in all trains. My fear is it doesn't look like a beta trial either.

Selo, y2koh, Mith - you're welcome for the photos. I took the shuttle bus from MRB to CTH that day and continued on to the EWL from there.

@circleline4: Wonderful shots relating to the upcoming Bayfront opening, thank you!
This will take our minds off the breakdown. Another thing is, I hope the Jan 14th opening of the CCLe to Bayfront will not be affected by the current turmoil. I can't wait to take the ride to MBS via the MRT.

Suddenly, Circle Line breakdown on opening day.

Suddenly, Circle Line breakdown on opening day.
So did the NEL ;)

Just an observation. Took set 35. Got the announcement. I guess it is just to remind people. It is not so bad. :)