We are not done expanding the rail network,' says PM Wong at opening of Thomson-East Coast Line Stage 4
The 7 new stations on Stage 4 of the line will officially open for passenger service on Sunday (Jun 23) more MRT lines, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
“Over the next decade, we will open over 50 new MRT stations, including the new Jurong Region Line and Cross Island Line – our seventh and eighth MRT lines,” Mr Wong said at the opening ceremony of TEL4 on Friday morning (Jun 21).
Ceremony was held at Marine Parade station, one of seven new stations along TEL4. The other stations are Tanjong Rhu, Katong Park, Tanjong Katong, Marine Terrace, Siglap and Bayshore.
The 7 new stations opened to public for a preview from noon to 9pm on Friday, b4 passenger service officially starts on Sunday. Mr Wong, who is also Finance Minister, recounted his days growing up in Marine Parade in the 1980s.
“Back then, I wished there was an MRT station near my home in Marine Terrace, then I could have taken the train directly,” he said. He added that while he no longer lives in the area, he is glad residents can enjoy faster public transport that is affordable. Students will also benefit, with more 10 schools within walking distance.
TEL4 station will also bring East Coast closer to Singaporeans from other parts of the island, noted Mr Wong, adding that popular food options in areas such as Joo Chiat and Katong would also be more accessible. He thanked residents along the TEL4 stretch for their patience while construction works were underway. Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat was also at opening ceremony, along with Members of Parliament for constituencies which TEL4 passes through.
They included Deputy PM Heng Swee Keat of East Coast GRC, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng and Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng of Marine Parade GRC, as well as Mr Lim Biow Chuan of Mountbatten SMC.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapor...ng-4426096