WALL TILES AT MRT STATIONS

Mr Steve Chia Kiah Hong asked the Minister for Transport (a) why are the wall tiles, which are in perfect condition at various MRT stations, such as those at Commonwealth, Buona Vista and Clementi, being hacked off and replaced by a coating of cement and paint; (b) what is the purpose of these works and the amount spent; and (c) will these works add to the rising cost and ultimately in higher fares to be borne by commuters.

Mr Yeo Cheow Tong: Heavy-duty ceramic tiles were used for the architectural finish of the exterior of the MRT stations at Redhill, Queensway, Commonwealth, Buona Vista and Clementi. This was an acceptable method of external finishing when the stations were built more than 14 years ago.

However, over the past 10 years and as a result of normal wear and tear, some of the tiles have been falling off. To prevent any risk of falling tiles causing injury to commuters, SMRT erected safety nettings. It also carried out a study to determine the extent of the problem and reviewed the possible solutions. The study concluded that the most cost-effective solution is to completely remove the tiles and replace them with a coating of cement and paint. SMRT estimated that this will cost about $900,000. Works have been in progress since mid-2001.

SMRT believes that the painted walls will be easier and no more expensive to maintain than the ceramic tiles over the long term.