Dhoby Ghaut MRT station

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File:NS24 Dhoby Ghaut MRT plaforms 20210331 150425.jpg

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Dhoby Ghaut station was included in the early plans of the MRT network in May 1982.{{Cite news |date=23 May 1982 |title=Proposed MRT stations |author= |page=1 |work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19820523-1.2.9 |access-date=12 December 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} It was to be constructed as part of the Phase I MRT segment from the Novena to Outram Park station;{{Cite news |date=8 July 1986 |title=Project to go on line in three stages |author= |work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19860708-1.2.54.13.2 |access-date=19 December 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} this segment was targeted to be completed by December 1987.{{Cite news |date=9 April 1987 |title=MRT system to be implemented in eight stages |author= |work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19870409-1.2.52 |access-date=19 December 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} Phase I, which would be part of the North South line (NSL), was given priority as it passes through areas having a higher demand for public transport, such as the densely populated housing estates of Toa Payoh and Ang Mo Kio and the Central Area. The line was aimed to relieve the traffic congestion on the Thomson–Sembawang road corridor.{{Cite book |title=Annual report |publisher=Provisional Mass Rapid Transit Authority |year=1983 |publication-place=Singapore |pages=5}}{{Cite news |date=29 August 1982 |title=North-south line off first |first=Rav |last=Dhaliwal |work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19820829-1.2.2 |access-date=19 December 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}}

Before construction began, tenants of Amber Mansions{{refn|group=note|A three-storey shopping centre located along Orchard Road.{{Cite book |title=Ray Tyers' Singapore: Then & now |publisher=Singapore: Landmark Books |year=1993 |isbn=9813002611 |page=158}}}} were compelled to relocate; the land had already been marked for acquisition in 1978.{{Cite news |author1=Wang Look Keah| date=13 November 1982 |title=MRT station at Amber Mansions |work=The Business Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/biztimes19821113-1.2.13.8 |access-date=19 December 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} Contract 106 for the design and construction of Dhoby Ghaut NSL station was awarded to a joint venture between French contractor Campenon-Bernard and Singapore Piling and Civil Engineering Company Limited.{{Cite news |date=9 October 1983 |title=More local arms getting involved |author= |work=Singapore Monitor |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/singmonitor19831009-1.2.3.4 |access-date=19 December 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} The S$51.3 million{{nbsp}}(US${{To USD|{{Inflation|SG|51.3|1983}}|SGP|year=2019|r=1}} million in {{Inflation/year|SG}}) contract, awarded in October 1983, included {{convert|3|km|miles|spell=in}} of tunnelling works between the Somerset and City Hall stations.{{Cite news |date=31 March 1983 |title=Tenders for MRT contracts |author=|work=The Business Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/biztimes19830331-1.2.14.4 |access-date=23 September 2021 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}}

Due to the soft marine clay at the station site, jet grouting was used to stabilise the soil.{{Cite news |date=4 January 1985 |title=Work on MRT moving ahead as planned |author=Loh Hui Yin |work=The Business Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/biztimes19850104-1.2.37 |access-date=23 September 2021 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} In January 1985, the soft soil led to a tunnel cave-in, which formed a {{convert|6|m|ft|adj=on|spell=in}} wide hole near Cathay Cinema.{{Cite news |date=12 January 1985 |title=Small cave-in at Dhoby Ghaut site |author=Loh Hui Yin |work=The Business Times |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/biztimes19850112-1.2.32 |access-date=5 October 2017 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} The hole was refilled and the soil was further strengthened by injecting a concrete mixture.{{Cite news |last=Dhaliwal |first=Rav |date=12 January 1985 |title=Dhoby Ghaut cave-in holds up MRT work |work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19850112-1.2.23.22 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} On 17 June, an engineer died when a crane fell into the work shaft and crushed him.{{Cite news |date=18 June 1985 |title=Fatal mishap at MRT worksite caused by falling crane |author=|work=Singapore Monitor |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/singmonitor19850618-2.2.5.12 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}}{{Cite news |date=18 June 1985 |title=Engineer dies in MRT accident |author=|work=The Business Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/biztimes19850618-1.2.6 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} Investigations revealed that the three pieces of timber intended to support the crane were not properly fastened and inadequate in providing support.{{Cite news |date=10 September 1987 |title=Outrigger footing not properly linked: Engineer |author=|work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19870910-1.2.32.12 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} The contractor was fined S$1,000 (US${{Formatnum:{{To USD|{{Inflation|SG|1000|1988}}|SGP|year=2019|r=0}}}} in {{Inflation/year|SG}}) for failing to ensure that the crane was capable of handling the load.{{Cite news |date=22 January 1988 |title=MRT contractor fined over death at worksite |work=The Straits Times |author=|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19880122-1.2.26.32 |access-date=12 September 2017 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} Despite the incidents, structural work for the station was completed that September.{{Cite news |date=12 September 1985 |title=MRT job done on time despite obstacles |author=|work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19850912-1.2.34.12 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}}

To help people familiarise themselves with the system, the Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRTC) organised an open house at the station on 6 December 1987.{{Cite news |date=13 November 1987 |title=Open days at 9 MRT stations |author=|work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871113-1.2.33.24 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} Train services commenced on 12 December when the line extension to Outram Park station was officially completed.{{Cite news |date=6 November 1987 |title=20 stations by next year |author=|work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871106-1.2.38.4 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}}{{Cite news |last=Rav |first=Dhaliwal |date=12 December 1987 |title=Shopping for Xmas the MRT way... |work=The Straits Times |url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871212-1.2.3 |access-date=19 September 2017 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} The station was part of a line service that ran continuously from Yishun station in the north to Lakeside station in the west. From 28 October 1989, it began to serve the NSL with the operational split of the MRT system.{{Cite news |date=24 October 1989 |title=MRT transfers will begin this Saturday |author=|page=3 |work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19891024-1.2.8.9 |access-date=13 September 2021 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}}{{refn|group=note|The MRT system was split into East West line (running from Tanah Merah station to Lakeside) and the NSL (running from Yishun station to Marina Bay).{{Cite news |date=20 September 1989 |title=Easy MRT train transfers – with colour code guide |author=|work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19890920-1.2.29.5 |access-date=21 September 2021 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}}}} In September 2000, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) installed lifts to allow barrier-free access to the station.{{Cite news |date=24 December 2002 |title=More MRT stops ready for disabled |page=1 |work=The Straits Times}}

File:NE6 Dhoby Ghaut MRT Platforms 20200717 155235.jpg

Plans were made in 1986 for a new line from Outram Park station via Dhoby Ghaut to Punggol station in the northeast.{{Cite news |date=30 March 1986 |title=MRT Extension |author=|work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19860330-1.2.9.1.7 |access-date=13 September 2021 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} These were finalised as the North East line (NEL) in January 1996.{{sfn | Leong | 2003 | p=31}}{{Cite news |date=20 January 1996 |title=Immediate start for north-east line |work=The Straits Times|author=Leong Chan Teik}} In August 1997, the LTA awarded Contract C707 for building the NEL station to Obayashi Corporation.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=107}} The S$268 million{{nbsp}}(US${{To USD|{{Inflation|SG|268|1997}}|SGP|year=2019|r=1}} million in {{Inflation/year|SG}}) contract included the construction of two commercial buildings above the station.{{Cite news |date=12 August 1997 |title=LTA's first at Dhoby Ghaut|author=Jen Chua |page=5 |work=The Business Times}}{{Cite web |date=12 April 2001 |title=Topping-Out Of Commercial Development Above Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station |url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=224 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210331105730/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/2010-04-23%2022:12:28.000/wp/details/http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=224 |archive-date=31 March 2021 |access-date=22 April 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg |url-status=dead }} Construction began in 1996, with NEL commencing services on 20 June 2003.{{Cite web |date=20 June 2003 |title=North East Line Opens for Passenger Service! |url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_new_content.asp?start=44 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/2007-12-03%2014:06:14.000/wp/details/http%3A%2F%2Fapp.lta.gov.sg%2Fcorp_new_content.asp%3Fstart%3D44 |archive-date=3 December 2007 |access-date=22 April 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg}}

Construction difficulties included having to reroute the Stamford Canal, which bisected the station site, to a temporary canal. The old canal box was rebuilt and replaced by a new, larger box, which lies above the second level of the station. The new canal was temporarily supported by steel piles while the NEL station box was being constructed.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=102}} With the proximity of works near the existing NSL station and tunnels,{{refn|group=note|The new station site was situated {{convert|3|meters|ft|spell=in}} from the existing NSL station while the NEL tunnels were constructed {{convert|5|meters|ft|spell=in}} below the NSL tunnels.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=100}}}} motion detectors had to be set up to detect any settlement of the NSL tunnels. To facilitate the station's construction, a part of Mount Sophia, the hill above the site, had to be removed. An {{convert|8|meters|ft|spell=in|adj=on}} high sheet pile wall, restrained with ground anchors, supported the unaffected parts of the hill.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=100}}

Another construction difficulty was the irregular shapes and varying sizes of the station's five levels bound by space constraints.{{Cite web |title=Dhoby Ghaut Mass Rapid Interchange Station-Singapore |url=https://www.wsp.com/en-TH/projects/dhoby-ghaut-mass-rapid-interchange-station-singapore |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190514181607/https://www.wsp.com/en-TH/projects/dhoby-ghaut-mass-rapid-interchange-station-singapore |archive-date=14 May 2019 |access-date=27 April 2020 |website=WSPglobal}} This made it difficult to install the site's temporary retaining walls because of the many voids in between the station levels.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=100}}{{refn|group=note|name=first|The station construction also required liaison with owners of the buildings and businesses in the area, ensuring the stability and smooth operations of the surrounding businesses above ground.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=105–107}}}}

File:MRT Route Map MR.png|alt=A map showing the Marina Line plans as announced in October 1997. The line, coloured in orange, has five branches connecting to (clockwise from north) Kallang, Paya Lebar, Tanjong Pagar, Chinatown and Dhoby Ghaut. The Kallang and Paya Lebar branches converge into one branch, before branching out again into three branches to Tanjong Pagar, Chinatown and Dhoby Ghaut]]

The station box for the Circle line (CCL) had been put in place when the NEL station was being constructed.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=107}} It was planned for Dhoby Ghaut station to be the terminus of a branch of the Marina line (MRL).{{Cite news |date=16 October 1997 |title=Plans for new Marina train line are rolling |work=The Business Times |author=Jenny Lam |quote=The proposed {{convert|12|km|miles|adj=on}} Marina line... is likely to start from Kallang MRT station,... (joining) People's Park (Chinatown) station (and) there will be a branch running from Marina Centre to the Dhoby Ghaut MRT station.}} The MRL was finalised to serve six stations from this station to Stadium station in November 1999.{{Cite news |date=25 November 1999 |title=6 stations for Marina line's first phase |page=3 |work=The Straits Times|author=Ceraldine Yeo}}{{Cite news |date=25 November 1999 |title=Marina rail line to be scaled back|author=Marissa Chew |page=3 |work=The Business Times}} The station became part of CCL Stage 1 (CCL1) when the MRL plans were incorporated into the CCL plans in 2001.{{Cite web |title=Stage 1 of the Circle Line |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/projects/proj_rail_ccl1.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080410205235/http://www.lta.gov.sg/projects/proj_rail_ccl1.htm |archive-date=10 April 2008 |access-date=10 October 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg}}{{Cite web |date=28 April 2001 |title=Circle Line and Kallang/Paya Lebar Expressway: Joint Press Statement by Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and Ministry of Law |url=https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2001042808.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200306000711/https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/2001042808.htm |archive-date=6 March 2020 |access-date=10 October 2020 |publisher=National Archives of Singapore}}

On 7 August 2001, the LTA awarded Contract 825 for the design and construction of the CCL station and associated tunnels to a joint venture among Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Woh Hup Pte Ltd and NCC International AB.{{Cite web |title=Project LTA C825 STECS |url=http://www.stecs.com.sg/lta-c825 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200903130547/http://www.stecs.com.sg/lta-c825 |archive-date=3 September 2020 |access-date=27 April 2020 |website=stecs2 |language=en}} The S$343.94 million{{nbsp}}(US${{To USD|{{Inflation|SG|343.94|2001}}|SGP|year=2019|r=1}} million in {{Inflation/year|SG}}) contract included building the Bras Basah, Esplanade and Promenade stations.{{Cite web |title=LTA Annual Safety Award Convention 2005 |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/images/ASAC%20event%20-%20Fact%20sheet%20(FINAL).doc |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/wayback/20091130045741/http://www.lta.gov.sg/images/ASAC%20event%20-%20Fact%20sheet%20(FINAL).doc |archive-date=30 November 2009 |access-date=22 April 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg}}{{Cite web |date=7 August 2001 |title=Award of Second Civil Works Contract for the Marina Line |url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=312 |archive-url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/2009-05-01%2016:39:46.000/wp/details/http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=312 |archive-date=1 May 2009 |access-date=2 May 2009 |website=lta.gov.sg}} During construction, part of Orchard Road had to be realigned for three months from 10 June 2002.{{Cite web |title=Temporary Traffic Diversion And Road Realignment For Construction Of Circle Line Stage 1 |url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=509 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/2010-04-23%2022:26:00.000/wp/details/http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=509 |archive-date=23 April 2010 |access-date=22 April 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg}} The underpass, linking the NEL and NSL platforms, had to be stabilised while construction works took place underneath. Seven caisson piles were installed to enhance the support of the underpass and capping beams were then constructed to form the supporting system.{{sfn | Cheong| 2012 | p=46}} Along with the other stations on CCL1 and 2,{{refn|group=note|The CCL1 and 2 consist of 11 stations from this station to Tai Seng.}} the station began operations on 17 April 2010.{{Cite web |title=Circle Line from Bartley to Dhoby Ghaut to Open 17 April |url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=kpt8zx9w8ik53wi33gr59p754348fsj35b9glldouy8ndlh7kb |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110621220756/http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=kpt8zx9w8ik53wi33gr59p754348fsj35b9glldouy8ndlh7kb |archive-date=21 June 2011 |access-date=26 January 2010 |website=lta.gov.sg}}{{Cite web |title=Welcome Remarks By Mr Raymond Lim at the Opening of the Circle Line From Dhoby Ghaut To Bartley on 16 April 2010 |url=http://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Welcome%20Remarks%20By%20Mr%20Raymond%20Lim%20At%20The%20Opening%20Of%20The%20Circle%20Line%20(From%20Dhoby%20Ghaut%20To%20Bartley)%20on%2016%20April%202010/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501111454/https://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Welcome%20Remarks%20By%20Mr%20Raymond%20Lim%20At%20The%20Opening%20Of%20The%20Circle%20Line%20(From%20Dhoby%20Ghaut%20To%20Bartley)%20on%2016%20April%202010/ |archive-date=1 May 2020 |access-date=1 May 2020 |website=mot.gov.sg |language=en}}

As part of a joint emergency preparedness exercise by the LTA and train operators SBS Transit and SMRT trains, security screenings were held at this station on 6 August 2024. Metal detectors and X-ray machines were deployed for the screening of commuters and their belongings during the exercise.{{cite web |last=Mujibah |first=Fatimah |date=29 July 2024 |title=Security screening at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station on Aug 6 as part of emergency preparedness drill |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/security-screening-at-dhoby-ghaut-mrt-station-on-aug-6-as-part-of-emergency-preparedness-exercise |access-date=6 August 2024 |website=The Straits Times}}

The station is located in the eponymous Dhoby Ghaut along the eastern end of Orchard Road, near the junction of Handy Road and Bras Basah Road.{{Cite web |title=Dhoby Ghaut – Map |url=http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/dhoby-ghaut/map/ |access-date=23 September 2021 |website=SMRT Journeys |archive-date=5 May 2021 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210505073921/http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/dhoby-ghaut/map/ |url-status=live }}{{cbignore}} It is on a former Jewish cemetery that was in operation between 1841 and 1983.{{Cite web |first=Darius |last=Cheung |date=27 May 2016 |title=Fears about past burial grounds soon laid to rest |url=https://www.todayonline.com/business/fears-about-past-burial-grounds-soon-laid-rest |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210906044509/https://www.todayonline.com/business/fears-about-past-burial-grounds-soon-laid-rest |archive-date=6 September 2021 |access-date=20 December 2019 |website=TODAYonline }} The station name, Dhoby Ghaut, is a Hindi term referring to the area's past as a traditional Indian open-air laundry (dhoby means "washerman" while ghat means "place or steps along a river").{{Cite book |title=Malayan street names: What they mean and whom they commemorate |publisher=Mercantile Press |year=1939 |page=98}}{{Cite web |title=Dhoby Ghaut |url=http://roots.sg/content/places/landmarks/orchard-heritage-trail/dhoby-ghaut |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200910103700/https://www.roots.sg/content/places/landmarks/orchard-heritage-trail/dhoby-ghaut |archive-date=10 September 2020 |access-date=9 June 2020 |website=roots.sg |language=en}}

Landmarks surrounding the station include The Istana, the MacDonald House, the Young Men's Christian Association building, the House of Tan Yeok Nee, Singapore Management University and the National Museum of Singapore. It is underneath retail and commercial developments such as Plaza Singapura shopping mall and The Atrium@Orchard office complex.{{Cite web |date=4 February 2015 |title=Dhoby Ghaut |url=https://www.smrt.com.sg/Journey-with-Us/Trains/NetworkMap/DhobyGhaut |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200131114145/http://www.smrt.com.sg/Journey-with-Us/Trains/NetworkMap/DhobyGhaut |archive-date=31 January 2020 |access-date=23 September 2020 |website=SMRT Corporation Ltd}}{{Cite web |title=Train Service Information |url=https://www.sbstransit.com.sg/Service/TrainInformation?TrainLine=NEL&Station=DBG |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200609123905/https://www.sbstransit.com.sg/Service/TrainInformation?TrainLine=NEL&Station=DBG |archive-date=9 June 2020 |access-date=23 September 2020 |website=SBSTransit}}

The station is served by the NSL, NEL and CCL and is the first triple-line interchange on the MRT network. The official station codes are NS24/NE6/CC1. When it opened, it had the station code of N1{{Cite news |date=25 October 1985 |title=Going to N1, B3, W11, El2, anyone? |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19851025-1.2.46.34 |access-date=19 November 2024 |work=The Straits Times |pages=21 |via=NewspaperSG}} before being changed to the current alphanumeric style in August 2001 as a part of a system-wide campaign to cater to the expanding MRT System.{{Cite news |last=Salim |first=Shazalina |date=3 August 2001 |title=Red, green and grey |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/today20010803-1.2.16.1 |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=Today |pages=9 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{Cite web |title=New Signage System For MRT And LRT Network |url=http://app.internet.gov.sg/scripts/lta/3_press_content.asp?start=294 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030801124949/http://app.internet.gov.sg/scripts/lta/3_press_content.asp?start=294 |archive-date=1 August 2003 |access-date=15 December 2024 |website=LTA}} Dhoby Ghaut station generally operates between 5:30{{nbsp}}am and 12:15{{nbsp}}am. The first train on the CCL departs from the station at 5:37{{nbsp}}am and the last train departs for Kranji station on the NSL at 12:13{{nbsp}}am.{{Cite web |title=Dhoby Ghaut – First & Last Train |url=http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/dhoby-ghaut/first-and-last-train/ |access-date=23 September 2021 |website=SMRT Journeys |archive-date=28 September 2021 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210928130609/http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/dhoby-ghaut/first-and-last-train/ |url-status=live }}{{cbignore}} On the NSL, Dhoby Ghaut station is between the Somerset and City Hall stations, with a headway of 2 to 5 mins in both directions. The station is between the Clarke Quay and Little India stations on the NEL, with a headway of 2.5 to 5 mins in both directions. The station is the terminus of CCL inner spur to the station; the adjacent station is Bras Basah station.{{Cite web |title=MRT System Map |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltagov/getting_around/public_transport/rail_network/pdf/sm-20-03-en-exp.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821064838/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltagov/getting_around/public_transport/rail_network/pdf/sm-20-03-en-exp.pdf |archive-date=21 August 2020 |access-date=21 August 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg}} During off-peak, train frequency on the line range from 5 to 6 mins, increasing to 2 to 3 mins during peak hours.{{Cite web |date=6 May 2020 |title=Transport Tools – MRT/LRT |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/map/train.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191101093932/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/map/train.html |archive-date=1 November 2019 |access-date=19 June 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg}}

File:NS24 NE6 CC1 Dhoby Ghaut MRT linkway 20210925 125210.jpg

Serving three MRT lines, the five-level underground station is the largest station on the network,{{Cite web|title=North East Line: Dhoby Ghaut Station|url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/images/Dhoby%20Ghaut%20Page%202.jpg|url-status=dead|archive-url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/wayback/20060704103753/http://www.lta.gov.sg/images/Dhoby%20Ghaut%20Page%202.jpg|archive-date=4 July 2006|access-date=23 September 2020|website=lta.gov.sg|page=2}}{{Cite web |title=Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station |url=http://www.saagroup.com/project/dhoby-ghaut-mrt-station/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180903062237/http://www.saagroup.com/project/dhoby-ghaut-mrt-station/ |archive-date=3 September 2018 |access-date=12 September 2017 |website=SAA}} with seven entrances connecting to the various developments around the station. The {{convert|180|m|ft|adj=on}} long NSL station, designed by French architect Spielman and local partner Chok and Associates, is located at Basement 3 of the station. The NSL station has brown and black geometric patterns that run throughout the station.{{Cite news |date=12 December 1987 |title=Reflections of our lifestyle |first=Jonathan|last=Choo|work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871212-1.2.122.9 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} These patterns guide passengers to the platforms, which has diamond-shaped tiles to indicate the platform screen doors.{{Cite news |date=15 January 1988 |title=Decorative tiles that serve as a guide |last=Dhaliwal|first=Rav|work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19850115-1.2.24.3 |access-date=10 September 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} Initially with three levels, the station expanded to five underground levels with the NEL platforms.{{Cite news |date=12 August 1997 |title=5 underground levels for new Dhoby Ghaut station |work=The Straits Times|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/multimedia/graphics/assets/images/ST175/NewspaperSG/1997-08-12/full.jpg|page=1|last1=Kaur|first1=Karamjit}}

The NEL platforms, constructed {{convert|28|m|ft}} below ground at Basement 5, were the deepest on the network{{Cite web |title=Photo Gallery – Integrated Developments and Interchange Stations |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/public_transport/pt_rail_photo.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111208020249/http://www.lta.gov.sg/public_transport/pt_rail_photo.htm |archive-date=8 December 2011 |website=lta.gov.sg |access-date=8 December 2011}} until 2010 when Bras Basah station on the CCL opened.{{Cite web |date=16 April 2010 |title=Factsheet Bras Basah Station |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/data/apps/news/press/2010/Bras%2520Basah%2520Station%2520Factsheet.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/wayback/20130219033256/http://app.lta.gov.sg/data/apps/news/press/2010/Bras%20Basah%20Station%20Factsheet.pdf |archive-date=19 February 2013 |access-date=30 March 2016 |website=lta.gov.sg |page=1}} Dhoby Ghaut station is the first MRT station to feature a set of {{convert|55|m|ft|adj=on}} travelators that link the NEL and NSL platforms.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=210}} The expanded station is integrated with the twin-towered office complex The Atrium@Orchard above the station. The first such integration on the MRT network allows for more efficient land use while improving access to public transport. The station also has retail shops collectively part of Staytion Lifestyle Centre,{{cite web |last=Loi |first=Esther |date=29 July 2024 |title=New wellness-themed retail hub launched at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/new-wellness-themed-retail-hub-launched-at-dhoby-ghaut-mrt-station |access-date=6 August 2024 |website=The Straits Times}} previously SMRT's Dhoby Ghaut XChange.{{Cite web |date=4 February 2015 |title=Locate a Store – North-South Line |url=https://www.smrtshops.com.sg/Locate-a-Store/North-South-Line |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113073608/https://www.smrtshops.com.sg/Locate-a-Store/North-South-Line |archive-date=13 January 2021 |access-date=28 March 2021 |website=SMRT Shops}}{{Cite web |title=Dhoby Ghaut – Shops |url=http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/dhoby-ghaut/shop-and-dine/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210822061040/http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/dhoby-ghaut/shop-and-dine/ |archive-date=22 August 2021 |access-date=22 August 2021 |website=SMRT Journeys |url-status=live }} It was initially planned for these shops to be taken over by an anchor tenant due to low footfall from the COVID-19 pandemic,{{Cite web |last=Tessa Oh |date=3 June 2021 |title='A ghost town': Orchard XChange shops suffer sluggish sales as landlord SMRT moves to take back units |url=https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/ghost-town-shops-orchard-xchange-tell-sluggish-business-landlord-smrt-moves-take-back |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210822061645/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/ghost-town-shops-orchard-xchange-tell-sluggish-business-landlord-smrt-moves-take-back |archive-date=22 August 2021 |access-date=22 August 2021 |website=TODAYonline}} but SMRT's retail arm Stellar Lifestyle instead revamped the retail space as part of a new themed retail concept.

Unlike the other NEL stations, the station itself is not designated as a Civil Defence shelter;{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=94}} an underground car park underneath the ten-storey tower is a designated shelter instead. As a result, the station is more spacious and naturally illuminated with lightwells.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=94}} The station architecture received an "honourable mention" at the Singapore Institute of Architects Design Awards in 2003.{{Cite web |title=Dhoby Ghaut Interchange Station Wins SIA Award |url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_new_content.asp?start=62 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/2007-12-03%2014:05:12.000/wp/details/http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_new_content.asp?start=62 |archive-date=3 December 2007 |access-date=3 December 2007 |website=lta.gov.sg}}

The station is wheelchair accessible. The NSL station, initially without accessible facilities, has been upgraded to include lifts, ramps and dedicated toilets for the disabled. A tactile system, consisting of tiles with rounded or elongated raised studs,{{Cite web |date=30 July 2021 |title=Tactile Guiding System: Studs and Strips to Guide Your Way |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/who_we_are/statistics_and_publications/Connect/tactile-guiding-system.html |access-date=11 September 2021 |website=lta.gov.sg |archive-date=11 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210911021750/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/who_we_are/statistics_and_publications/Connect/tactile-guiding-system.html |url-status=live }} guides visually impaired commuters through the station,{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=248}} with dedicated routes that connect the station entrances to the platforms or between the lines.{{sfn | Leong |2003 | p=149}} There are wider fare gates that allow easier access for wheelchair users into the station.{{sfn | Cheong|2012 | p=149}}

The station features six pieces of artworks. The artworks on the NEL and CCL platforms were commissioned as part of the MRT network Art-in-Transit programme, a showcase that integrates public artwork in the MRT network.

The mobile sculpture Lantern of Music by Tan Ping Chiang is suspended from the ceiling in the NSL concourse.{{Cite news |last=Hoe |first=Irene |date=5 December 1987 |title=$2M Worth of Art for Six MRT Stations |work=The Straits Times |publisher=Singapore Press Holdings |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871205-1.2.34.6 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} Intended to depict Singapore's multiracial culture, the sculpture resembles three lanterns. The largest "lantern" portrays the traditional and contemporary musical instruments of Singapore's different ethnic groups, while the two smaller lanterns portray the dances of these ethnic groups and opera masks.{{Cite news |date=6 December 1987 |title=Dhoby Ghaut station catches the eye with 'lantern of music' |author=|page=19 |work=The Straits Times |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871206-1.2.30.10 |access-date=17 December 2020 |via=NewspaperSG}}{{cbignore}} It was installed as part of the MRTC's S$2 million (US${{Formatnum:{{To USD|{{Inflation|SG|2|1987}}|SGP|year=2019|r=0}}}} million in {{Inflation/year|SG}}) commission of artworks at six MRT stations along the NSL.

File:NE6 Dhoby Ghaut Art in Transit.jpg

Milenko and Delia Prvacki's artwork Interchange is displayed across the linkway between the NSL and NEL portions of the interchange.{{Cite web |title=North East Line: Dhoby Ghaut Station |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/images/Dhoby%20Ghaut%20Page%203.jpg |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/wayback/20060704103549/http://www.lta.gov.sg/images/Dhoby%20Ghaut%20Page%203.jpg |archive-date=4 July 2006 |access-date=23 September 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg |page=3}} Featured on the walls, columns and the floor, including the floor mosaic at the foot of the escalators and ceramic works on four pillars, the artwork is a combination of Delia's ceramic works with Milenko's earthy mosaics.{{Cite web |title=Art-in-Transit – SBSTransit |url=https://www.sbstransit.com.sg/art-in-transit |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200421081419/https://www.sbstransit.com.sg/art-in-transit |archive-date=21 April 2020 |access-date=26 April 2020 |website=sbstransit.com.sg}} Seeking to reflect the ethnic‑cultural diversity of Singapore and the region,{{Cite web |date=7 April 2020 |title=Getting Around – Public Transport – A Better Public Transport Experience – Art in Transit |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/getting_around/public_transport/a_better_public_transport_experience/art_in_transit.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200421081559/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/getting_around/public_transport/a_better_public_transport_experience/art_in_transit.html |archive-date=21 April 2020 |access-date=21 April 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg}} the Prvackis integrated various local and regional cultural elements such as batik, Peranakan clothing and Chinese ceramics.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=78}}

The station's role as an interchange between the lines, its layout and the cultural history of Singapore inspired the artwork, which was the first major collaborative work between the couple.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=78}} The artists fused these elements to create modern art "expressed in a marriage of languages"{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=78}} while remaining sensitive to tradition and environment.{{Cite web |date=31 March 2021 |title=Mosaics and murals at the Dhoby Ghaut Interchange MRT Station (Basement 3) |url=https://delia.prvacki.com/en-mosaics-and-murals-at-the-dhoby-ghaut-interchange-mrt-station-basement-3/164.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210331101156/https://delia.prvacki.com/en-mosaics-and-murals-at-the-dhoby-ghaut-interchange-mrt-station-basement-3/164.html |archive-date=31 March 2021 |access-date=31 March 2021 |website=Delia Prvacki}} Delia's ceramics were inspired by Chinese ceramics which she was fascinated by since her first introduction to them by a teacher 30 years ago. In this work, she took the opportunity to renew her passion.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=78}} Milenko's mosaics are closely related to his life experiences and sense of identity. He explained that, in his home country of Serbia, mosaic is an important art form in Byzantine culture.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=79}}

Unlike many other NEL artworks, the artists hand-crafted the work, with Milenko and his four assistants working on his thousands of miniature mosaic tiles.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=79}} To emphasise the fusion of the artwork, the artists subtly adapted elements of each other's portions in their works. Delia's porcelains were integrated into Milenko's mosaics while his mosaic patterns were among the various spiral and elliptical shapes of Delia's tiles.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=80}} Some patterns and colours are repeated so that the different parts of the work share a common theme. Reflecting on the artwork, the Prvackis said that the project was a learning experience for them that required stretching their artistic thinking{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=80}} within the structural requirements while meeting the needs of commuters. Milenko added it was a "rare pleasure" working with his wife on the project.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=80}}

Another artwork, Universal Language by Sun Yu-Li, consists of 180‑floor tiles with various motifs distributed across the station. These tiles, accompanied by 14 glass plates positioned at various places in the station, act as wayfinding icons and guide commuters through the complex interchange via six different routes. These symbols lead to a large floor mosaic and a glass mural displayed at the centre of the station at Basement 2. The mosaic and mural incorporate the motifs used on the tiles.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=70}}

The artwork, which reflects Sun's background as an architect, was created to address the station's complex layout. Sun also wanted his work to be enjoyable to commuters. Derived from the station's role as a "gateway" for arts and culture in the area, he hoped to explore an "objective" and "pure form of expression" that connected to all cultures.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=70}} This led Sun to develop a "universal language of symbols" based on prehistoric art. The hunter, dancer, rider, animal, fish and bird were used as different sets of symbols for each of the six routes.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=73}} The initial concept was for the figures to emerge over time after accumulating dust and dirt. However, to improve the visibility of certain complex shapes, the figures were chemically treated.{{sfn | Tan | 2003 | p=75}}

File:CC1_Dhoby_Ghaut_Art_in_Transit.jpg

The CCL station features a wall relief, Man and Environment by Baet Yeok Kuan. The work consists of 36 white gypsum sculptures across the three columns supporting the CCL station. These sculptures depict unusual textures the artist captured in the station's vicinity alongside impressions of rocks and plants.{{sfn | Zhuang | 2013 | p=20}} The artwork intends to urge commuters to be more perceptive of less evident details while relieving the pressures of commuting through the fast-paced station environment.{{Cite web |title=Circle Line Art |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltaweb/corp/PublicTransport/files/CEL.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211184413/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltaweb/corp/PublicTransport/files/CEL.pdf |archive-date=11 February 2017 |access-date=20 September 2020 |website=lta.gov.sg}}

In creating the artwork, Baet used pencil and paper to sketch rubbings, while using plasticine to capture moulds. These collections of impressions were used as inspiration for the series of organic forms that the artwork uses.{{sfn | Zhuang | 2013 | p=20}} The work intends to connect commuters to their immediate surroundings while considering the station's functionality and design. The sculptures are kept in their original white—the colour of the gypsum used to construct the station and artwork—to blend with the orange walls of the station, which signify the CCL's colour. The colour also avoids distracting commuters while making them comfortable.{{sfn | Zhuang | 2013 | p=22}}

The work was produced over three months. Each of the {{convert|1|by|0.9|m|ft|adj=on|abbr=on}} art pieces was hand-sculpted in clay to create the mould for the actual gypsum sculpture. Baet was closely involved in the process and ensured the work had an organic and smooth texture.{{sfn | Zhuang | 2013 | p=22}} The sculptures were installed carefully near the operational area of the station to prevent disruption to commuters. The final touches to the work were moulded by hand, rather than using noisier and dustier power tools. Reflecting on his work, Baet felt he had "served the public" and found the project to be "very meaningful"; he hoped for his work to be relevant to commuters' daily travels.{{sfn | Zhuang | 2013 | p=23}}

File:CC1 Dhoby Ghaut MRT Platform B 20210618 180912.jpg

The CCL platforms feature a set of "art seats" entitled Matrix. Though the platform seats are intended to be works of art, they are designed to remain functional and practical.{{sfn | Zhuang | 2013 | pages=188, 193}} This work by Lui Honfay and Yasmine Chan, along with Rain, was selected through the International Art Seats Design Competition in 2006.{{Cite web |title=Art Is Everywhere |url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=1658 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/webarchives/2011-09-19%2018:01:29.000/wp/details/http%3A%2F%2Fapp.lta.gov.sg%2Fcorp_press_content.asp%3Fstart%3D1658 |archive-date=1 May 2009 |access-date=3 May 2009 |website=lta.gov.sg|publisher=Land Transport Authority}} Matrix consists of a series of benches engraved with the station name in a dot-matrix style on the seat surface. The dot-matrix system was adopted as it was flexible enough to be mass-produced for use in many stations. The intriguing combination of signage and seat "impressed" the judges who awarded it the top prize.{{sfn | Zhuang | 2013 | pages=188–189}}

A mural is displayed in the NSL station as part of SMRT's Comic Connect, a public art showcase of heritage-themed murals by the train operator.{{Cite web |title=Comic Connect |url=https://www.smrt.com.sg/public-transport/commuters-communities/connecting-communities/arts/ |access-date=September 20, 2024 |website=SMRT}} The mural, created by Lola Liu, Anthony Chong, and Rene Foo of Visual Arts Centre,{{refn|group=note|An art school in Dhoby Ghaut{{Cite web |title=About Visual Arts Centre |website=Visual Arts Centre |url=https://visualartscentre.sg/|access-date=September 20, 2024}}|url=https://www.smrt.com.sg/getmedia/7b9367e4-455d-44f0-a356-080beb7447f8/23-dhoby-ghaut.pdf|access-date=September 20, 2024|website=SMRT|type=PDF file}} depicts the heritage of Dhoby Ghaut through the portrayal of Indian dhobies (washerman), which is the namesake of the area. The work also showcases landmarks such as the MacDonald House, The Istana, National Archives of Singapore, Plaza Singapura, National Museum of Singapore, and The Cathay.{{Cite web |title=230816_Wall 8 |url=https://www.smrt.com.sg/getmedia/7b9367e4-455d-44f0-a356-080beb7447f8/23-dhoby-ghaut.pdf |access-date=September 20, 2024 |website=SMRT |type=PDF file}}

{{Reflist|group=note}}

{{Reflist|30em}}

• {{Cite book |last=Cheong |first=Colin |title=The Circle Line: Linking All Lines |publisher=Land Transport Authority |date=2012 |publication-place=Singapore |isbn=978-981-4342-02-5}}
• {{Cite book |last=Leong |first=Chan Teik |title=Getting there : The story of the North East Line |publisher=Land Transport Authority |year=2003 |isbn=981-04-5886-X |location=Singapore |oclc=53383062}}
• {{Cite book |last=Tan |first=Su |title=Art in transit : North East Line MRT |publisher=Land Transport Authority |year=2003 |isbn=981-04-7384-2 |publication-place=Singapore |oclc=52771106}}
• {{Cite book |last=Zhuang |first=Justin |title=Art in transit : Circle Line MRT |publisher=Land Transport Authority |year=2013 |isbn=978-981-07-4982-8 |publication-place=Singapore |oclc=854958677}}

• [https://www.sbstransit.com.sg/Service/TrainInformation?TrainLine=NEL&Station=DBG SBS Transit's Dhoby Ghaut MRT station official website]
• {{Official website|http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/dhoby-ghaut/|name=SMRT's Dhoby Ghaut MRT station official website}}
• {{Commons and category-inline|Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station|Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station}}

{{Singapore MRT stations|north-south=yes|north-east=yes|circle=yes}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Dhoby Ghaut MRT station}}

Category:Railway stations in Singapore opened in 1987

Category:Museum Planning Area

Category:Orchard Road

Category:Mass Rapid Transit (Singapore) stations