MRT NORTH-EAST ROUTE (Construction of)

Mr Goh Choon Kang asked the Minister for Communications and Information whether any decision has been taken with regard to the Mass Rapid Transit Corporation's plan for a North-East route which will cover Serangoon New Town, Jalan Kayu and Punggol.

The Minister for Communications and Information (Dr Yeo Ning Hong): Mr Speaker, Sir, the Government has decided, in principle, to extend the MRT system in a north-easterly direction, from the vicinity of Chinatown and the City to the vicinity of Punggol and Jalan Kayu. The timing for the construction will, of course, depend on the development of housing estates in the north-easterly sector, because unless there is sufficient demand for the MRT, the MRT will not be economically viable.

Presently, MRTC, URA, and HDB are studying possible route alignments for the MRT extension bearing in mind the future housing and urban developments along that corridor. Detailed MRT engineering and soil studies will begin when HDB and URA have completed their plans.

Mr Goh Choon Kang (Braddell Heights): Sir, is the Minister aware that some of the properties along Upper Serangoon Road are said to be affected by the plan and as a result, the owners of these properties are unable to sell their properties even though they are in financial difficulties?

Dr Yeo Ning Hong: Mr Speaker, Sir, that matter is under the purview of the Ministry of National Development. I am sure if the Member for Braddell Heights will bring this to their attention, the Minister will look into the matter.