SMRT announced on 15 Apr 2021 that works will be carried out for the removal of tracks leading to a decommissioned temporary maintenance facility.
As such, a single platform operation will then be implemented for trains operating at Marina Bay station on the Circle Line (CCL).
Maintenance Facility for the DTL, but on the CCL?
A Bombardier MOVIA C951 train for the Downtown Line (DTL).
When the Downtown Line (DTL) Stage 1 commenced operations in December 2013, Gali Batu Depot (GBD) which now serves the entire DTL was not directly linked to DTL1. With that, DTL trains had to utilise part of the Kim Chuan Depot (KCD) where it was primarily used for the CCL trains.
Cross-line Transfer for Maintenance at Kim Chuan Depot
Both DTL and CCL trains are able to travel on the same tracks, as both lines use the same track specification of standard 1,435mm track gauge. However, as both DTL and CCL utilise different signalling systems, there can be two possibilities for DTL trains to travel to KCD (via Bayfront and Tai Seng), by getting hauled by locomotives or by travelling in Restricted Manual mode.
Marina Bay Temporary Maintenance Facility
The Marina Bay Temporary Maintenance Facility (MBTMF) comes into the equation by providing minor maintenance works for trains, while the KCD was used for more major maintenance works. When DTL2 opened in December 2015, the DTL will then receive direct linkage to the GBD, and thus making the MBTMF redundant.
Track Removal Works
SMRT mentioned that works will be carried out from 18 April to 1 June 2021 to remove tracks leading to the MBTMF as they are “no longer in use.”
A single platform operation will be used at Marina Bay station on the CCL from 15 May to 1 June 2021, and information will be provided to guide commuters to the correct platform.
The rail operator also mentioned that they “don’t expect any impact on train services” caused by the track removal works.
Should there be a delay between Marina Bay and Promenade stations, additional station signage will be available and announcements will be made on the CCL.
Related Links
Circle Line – SGTrains
Downtown Line – SGTrains
Signalling Systems – SGTrains
External Links
Factsheet: Gali Batu MRT Depot – LTA
Circle Line Update on 15 April – SMRT