Reasons for Delay in Completion of East Coast Stretch of Thomson-East Coast Line

Mr Low Thia Khiang asked the Minister for Transport what are the reasons for the completion of the East Coast stretch of the Thomson-East Coast Line in 2023/2024 instead of 2020 which is the date stated in the Land Transport Masterplan 2008 and LTA's Connect Newsletter April 2008.

Mr Lui Tuck Yew: The East Coast stretch of the Thomson-East Coast Line was first announced as the Eastern Region Line as part of the 2008 Land Transport Master Plan, with an estimated completion date of 2020. The subsequent detailed architectural and engineering studies revealed that complex construction works and substantial service and road diversions would be required. The integrated four-in-one rail and bus depot, which is complex to build but will result in sizeable land savings, as well as the Downtown Line 3 Extension have added further to the project timeline. Hence, the estimated completion timelines have been revised to 2023/2024.