North–South MRT line

{{Main|History of the Mass Rapid Transit (Singapore)}}

{{Stack|float=right|File:NS19 Toa Payoh Plaque unveiled.jpg}}

The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) originated from a forecast in 1967 by the planners of the State and City Planning Project,{{cite news |author= |title='Unique nation State' plan |date=20 September 1967 |newspaper=The Straits Times |page=6 |via=National Library Board |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19670920-1.2.22 |access-date=14 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191115204019/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19670920-1.2.22 |archive-date=15 November 2019 |url-status=live }} which stated the need for a rail-based urban transport system in Singapore by 1992.{{cite book|last1=Seah C. M.|title=Southeast Asian Affairs.|date=1981|publisher=Singapore: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies|page=293|url=http://eservice.nlb.gov.sg/item_holding_s.aspx?bid=4183690|access-date=14 April 2020|archive-date=19 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919041256/https://eservice.nlb.gov.sg/item_holding.aspx?bid=4183690|url-status=live}}{{cite book | ref=sharp2005 | last=Sharp | first=Ilsa |title=The Journey — Singapore's Land Transport Story |publisher=SNP:Editions |year=2005 |isbn=978-981-248-101-6}}{{rp|66}}{{cite report |citeseerx = 10.1.1.119.9246 |author=Fwa Tien Fang |title=Sustainable Urban Transportation Planning and Development — Issues and Challenges for Singapore |date=4 September 2004 |publisher=Department of Civil Engineering, National University of Singapore}} Following a debate on whether a bus-only system would be more cost-effective, then-Minister for Communications Ong Teng Cheong came to the conclusion that an all-bus system would be inadequate, as it would have to compete for road space in the land-scarce country.{{cite web |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/about-lta/our-history/1980s.html |title=1982 – The Year Work Began |publisher=Land Transport Authority |access-date=16 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130929173053/http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/about-lta/our-history/1980s.html |archive-date=29 September 2013 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |author1=Lee Siew Hoon |author2=Chandra Mohan |name-list-style=amp |url= http://www.channelnewsasia.com/cna/obituaries/ongtengcheong/special2.htm |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20020223222029/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/cna/obituaries/ongtengcheong/special2.htm |archive-date= 23 February 2002 |title=In Memoriam — Ong Teng Cheong: A Profile |work=Channel NewsAsia |location =Singapore |access-date=26 November 2007}}

After deciding on a rail-based system, the construction of Phase I of the MRT system,{{cite news |title=Project to go on line in three stages |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19860708-1.2.54.13.2 |work=The Straits Times |date=8 July 1986 |page=8 |access-date=8 March 2021 |archive-date=12 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220412214257/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19860708-1.2.54.13.2 |url-status=live }} which will be the North–South Line, was given priority as the line 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 expected to relieve the traffic congestion on the Thomson–Sembawang road corridor.{{Cite book|title=Annual report / Provisional Mass Rapid Transit Authority, Republic of Singapore.|publisher=Singapore: Provisional Mass Rapid Transit Authority|year=1983|pages=5}}{{cite news |title=North–south line off first |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19820829-1.2.2 |work=The Straits Times |date=29 August 1982 |access-date=19 December 2020 |archive-date=19 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201219051543/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19820829-1.2.2 |url-status=live }} Construction of the MRT line (and also the MRT system itself) started on 22 October 1983,{{cite news |title=Work begins on the first part of MRT system |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19831029-1.2.70.8 |work=The Straits Times |date=29 October 1983 |access-date=19 December 2020 |archive-date=19 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201219051544/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19831029-1.2.70.8 |url-status=live }} and the first section from Yio Chu Kang station to Toa Payoh station opened on 7 November 1987.{{cite news|title=All aboard for the Subway Age|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871108-1.2.2|publisher=The Straits Times|date=8 November 1987|access-date=3 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170912145237/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871108-1.2.2|archive-date=12 September 2017|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/e926e24f-9c14-482b-b278-d582b535deb6|title=MRT system begins operations – Singapore History|website=eresources.nlb.gov.sg|access-date=8 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200212134059/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/history/events/e926e24f-9c14-482b-b278-d582b535deb6|archive-date=12 February 2020|url-status=live}} At the inauguration ceremony, Ong Teng Cheong, who backed and commissioned the planning of the MRT system, attended the ceremony as a special Guest of Honour. Dr Yeo Ning Hong, the Minister For Communications and Information, inaugurated the start of MRT operations and announced it to be the "beginning" of the MRT system.{{cite web |title=Speech by Dr Yeo Ning Hong, Minister For Communications and Information And Second Minister For Defence (Policy), at the inauguration of public service of the MRT system at the Toa Payoh Station on Saturday, 7 November 1987 at 9.00 am |url=https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/ynh19871107s.pdf |website=nas.gov.sg |date=7 November 1987 |access-date=19 December 2020 |archive-date=19 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190719034357/http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/ynh19871107s.pdf |url-status=live }}

Nine more stations from Novena station to Outram Park station via Raffles Place opened on 12 December that year.{{Cite news|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871212-1.2.3|title=Shopping for Xmas the MRT way...|last=Rav|first=Dhaliwal|date=12 December 1987|work=Straits Times|access-date=19 September 2017|via=eResources|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180124011005/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19871212-1.2.3|archive-date=24 January 2018|url-status=live}} The line was extended northward to Yishun station on 20 December 1988 as part of phase 2B{{cite news|title=MRT Yishun opens, two-thirds of system now complete|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/newpaper19881220-1.2.11.2|publisher=The New Paper|date=20 December 1988|location=NewspaperSG|page=8|language=en|access-date=3 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171007221657/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/newpaper19881220-1.2.11.2|archive-date=7 October 2017|url-status=live}} and it began independent operations on 4 November 1989 as the North–South Line when the extension to Marina Bay station was opened.{{cite news |title=New names for eight stations |publisher=Singapore Monitor |date=30 November 1982}}{{Cite news|last=Dhaliwal|first=Rav|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19891104-1.2.33.1|title=East-enders get ticket to ride as MRT opens line|work=The Straits Times|access-date=21 April 2020|archive-date=19 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919041254/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19891104-1.2.33.1|url-status=live}}

{{Quote box

|class =

|title =

|quote = The growth of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system demonstrates the Government's commitment to develop a top-rate public transport system for the benefit of our people. Now [the Woodlands residents] too can enjoy the high quality service provided by the MRT... Achieving a world class land transport system takes time. Whether we can do so or not does not depend on the Government alone. It depends on all of us. If the people and the Government continue to work together, as we have done in the past, we will produce the economic growth and budget surpluses to build, not just a world-class transport system, but also the most attractive Singapore for our children to grow up in the 21st Century.

|author = – Then-Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong, at the official opening of the Woodlands MRT line, on 10 February 1996.{{cite web |url=https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/19960210_0001.pdf |title=Speech by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong at the Opening of Woodlands MRT Line on Saturday, 10 February 1996 at 10.00 AM |last=Goh |first=Chok Tong |date=10 February 1996 |website=National Archives of Singapore |access-date=3 February 2020 |archive-date=14 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190714093300/http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/19960210_0001.pdf |url-status=live }}

|align = left

|width = 30em

|border =

|fontsize =

|bgcolor =

|style =

|title_bg =

|title_fnt =

|tstyle =

|qalign =

|qstyle =

|quoted =

|salign =

|sstyle =

}}

After the Branch line (from the Jurong East to Choa Chu Kang stations) opened in 1990, the Woodlands MRT line was envisioned so as to close the gap between Yishun and Choa Chu Kang stations.{{Cite news|date=11 March 1988|title=MRTC considering extending line to Woodlands|work=The Straits Times|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19880311-1.2.5|archive-date=19 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919041253/https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19880311-1.2.5|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_364_2005-01-28.html|title=Woodlands MRT line {{!}} Infopedia|publisher=National Library Board|website=eresources.nlb.gov.sg|access-date=19 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180101140912/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_364_2005-01-28.html|archive-date=1 January 2018|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|title=Work on Woodlands MRT line to begin later this year|last=Leong|first=C. T.|date=26 February 1991|work=The Straits Times}} Numerous changes were made to the number of stations for the extension mainly to accommodate the 1991 Concept Plan by the Urban Redevelopment Authority,{{Cite web|url=https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Planning/Concept-Plan/Past-Concept-Plans|title=Past Concept Plans|website=www.ura.gov.sg|access-date=30 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200130132455/https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Planning/Concept-Plan/Past-Concept-Plans|archive-date=30 January 2020|url-status=live}} which aimed to make Woodlands a regional centre for northern Singapore.{{Cite book|title=Living the next lap: towards a tropical city of excellence.|publisher=Urban Redevelopment Authority|year=1991|pages=14}}

During the initial planning of the line, Sembawang station was only intended as a provisional station, to be built at a later date due to the underdevelopment of Sembawang, and construction began on 19 November 1992.{{Cite news|title=Better layouts for six new MRT stations|date=19 November 1992|work=The Straits Times}} Sembawang station{{Cite news|title=Another station added to Woodlands MRT line|date=19 November 1992|work=The Straits Times}} and Kranji station{{cite web | url=http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_365_2005-01-28.html | title=Kranji MRT station | publisher=National Library Board Singapore | date=11 November 2003 | access-date=3 February 2012 | author=Thulaja, Naidu Ratnala | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231050129/http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_365_2005-01-28.html | archive-date=31 December 2013 }} were later included in the construction after the second round of planning (construction began at the same time on 19 November 1992) and Sungei Kadut station was then omitted. Sungei Kadut will be built later if the town's population justifies the necessity for the station.{{cite news |title=Station names for Woodlands line have ties to surroundings |work=The Straits Times |date=20 November 1991 |page=3 |quote=Sembawang will be in the proposed town centre of Sembawang New Town, while Kadut station will be in Sungei Kadut Industrial Estate, earmarked for redevelopment into a new town}}

During the construction, a total of 19 new trains were purchased for almost S$259 million for the new MRT line, designed by German company Siemens Aktiengesellschaft, to complement the 66 first-generation C151 trains. There was also a need to level the land covered in thick vegetation in Kadut, Woodlands and Sembawang for the MRT line.{{Cite news|title=Woodlands MRT closer|date=4 October 1994|work=The Straits Times}}

With the official opening of the Woodlands extension on 10 February 1996 by then Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong, the Branch line was incorporated into the North–South Line. The extension was built at a cost of $1.2 billion.{{Cite web|url=https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/19960210_0001.pdf|title=Speech by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong at the opening of Woodlands MRT line on Saturday, 10 February 1996 at 10.00 am|date=10 February 1996|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190714093300/http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/data/pdfdoc/19960210_0001.pdf|archive-date=14 July 2019}}

{{clear|left}}

{{main|Marina South Pier MRT station|Canberra MRT station}}

File:NS12 Canberra MRT Station.jpg

The NSL platforms of the Bishan station underwent major alterations to increase the passenger capacity of the station from 1,250 to 2,020. A new air-conditioned platform to serve southbound trains then to Marina Bay was constructed and opened for service on 27 July 2008, connected to Junction 8 via Exit E. The station was expanded to handle increased passenger traffic when the CCL station opens.{{Cite news|title=New Platform at Bishan Station ready|date=26 July 2008|work=The Straits Times}} As the original platform, now serving northbound trains to Jurong East, remained in service, upgrading works for the platform (Platform A) was hindered and took about a year to complete. While the re-tiling of the platform was done during the day, the Platform Screen Doors (PSDs) were installed in sections through the night. An air-conditioning system was also installed as part of the upgrade. Upgrading works for the platform were fully completed on 23 May 2009.{{cite news |title=Bishan MRT station ready for Circle crowds |work=The Straits Times |date=22 May 2009|page=49}}

Under the Land Transport Master Plan 2008, the Jurong East Modification Project entailed the construction of a new platform and the addition of a fourth track to Jurong East station to reduce waiting times and crowding at the station during peak hours.{{cite web |url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start%3D1964 |title=Jurong East Modification Project|access-date=31 January 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120212162757/http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=1964 |archive-date=12 February 2012 }} The modification project was completed on 27 May 2011.{{cite web |url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=9h18aw9i6asknrt367xu15fsk5yfn42ppgtynwhh6ob20585f8 |title=New Platform At Jurong East Station To Open On 27 May |publisher=Land Transport Authority of Singapore |date=16 May 2011 |access-date=22 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141220064357/http://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=9h18aw9i6asknrt367xu15fsk5yfn42ppgtynwhh6ob20585f8 |archive-date=20 December 2014 |url-status=live }} The track and platform was initially opened during morning peak hours only, but since December 2011, they also operate during the evening peak hours.{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=9h18aw9i6asknrt367xu15fsk5yfn42ppgtynwhh6ob20585f8|title=New Platform At Jurong East Station To Open On 27 May {{!}} Press Room {{!}} Land Transport Authority|website=www.lta.gov.sg|language=en|access-date=23 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170923145050/https://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=9h18aw9i6asknrt367xu15fsk5yfn42ppgtynwhh6ob20585f8|archive-date=23 September 2017|url-status=live}}

In the 2008 Land Transport Master Plan, the {{convert|1|km|mi|1|adj=on}} North–South Line extension was announced as one of the upcoming projects rolled out by the Land Transport Authority to expand Singapore's rail network.{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltaweb/corp/PublicationsResearch/files/ReportNewsletter/LTMP-Report.pdf|title=Land Transport Master Plan 2008 (Pg 34)|date=February 2008|website=www.lta.gov.sg|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111133443/http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltaweb/corp/PublicationsResearch/files/ReportNewsletter/LTMP-Report.pdf|archive-date=11 November 2012|access-date=8 November 2019}} The one kilometre extension from Marina Bay to Marina South Pier station was opened on 23 November 2014.{{Cite web|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/marina-south-pier-mrt-station-on-north-south-line-to-open-on-sunday|title=Marina South Pier MRT Station on North–South Line to open on Sunday|date=22 November 2014|website=The Straits Times|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224163243/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/marina-south-pier-mrt-station-on-north-south-line-to-open-on-sunday|archive-date=24 February 2018|access-date=8 November 2019}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=4518c4b9-a674-42a4-9f27-81d9325bb983|title=Marina South Pier Station to Open on 23 November|date=17 November 2014|website=lta.gov.sg|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150307081123/http://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=4518c4b9-a674-42a4-9f27-81d9325bb983|archive-date=7 March 2015|access-date=8 November 2019}} This extension serves the Marina South Pier, the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, and future developments in the Marina Bay Downtown area.{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/projects/north-south-line-extension.html|title=North–South Line Extension {{!}} Projects {{!}} Public Transport {{!}} Land Transport Authority|website=www.lta.gov.sg|language=en|access-date=19 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120930005359/http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/projects/north-south-line-extension.html|archive-date=30 September 2012|url-status=live}}

On 17 January 2013, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced that a feasibility study was conducted to construct Canberra MRT station.{{cite web |url=https://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Speech%20by%20Mr%20Lui%20Tuck%20Yew%20at%20visit%20to%20DTL1%20Chinatown%20Station%20on%2017%20January%202013/ |title=Speech by Mr Lui Tuck Yew at visit to DTL1 Chinatown Station on 17 January 2013 |website=MOT |access-date=19 September 2019 |date=17 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200226205104/https://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Speech%20by%20Mr%20Lui%20Tuck%20Yew%20at%20visit%20to%20DTL1%20Chinatown%20Station%20on%2017%20January%202013/ |archive-date=26 February 2020 |url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=38dc4ca3-5e70-4bf8-97bc-87f78e6303e7 | title=Two New Rail Lines And Three New Extensions To Expand Rail Network By 2030 | publisher=Land Transport Authority | date=17 January 2013 | access-date=1 August 2014 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140706170425/http://app.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=38dc4ca3-5e70-4bf8-97bc-87f78e6303e7 | archive-date=6 July 2014 }} The feasibility study was completed in 2014 and LTA announced Canberra as a new station.{{cite web | url=http://www.straitstimes.com/news/singapore/transport/story/new-mrt-station-north-south-line-canberra-20140627 | title=New MRT station for North–South Line: Canberra | publisher=The Straits Times | date=27 June 2014 | access-date=1 August 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808063321/http://www.straitstimes.com/news/singapore/transport/story/new-mrt-station-north-south-line-canberra-20140627 | archive-date=8 August 2014 | url-status=live }} Construction of Canberra station commenced on 26 March 2016.{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=7de0099c-4e9d-4a67-bb3f-217885a85fe3|title=Work Starts for Canberra MRT Station on North–South Line|date=26 March 2016|website=LTA|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011181151/https://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=7de0099c-4e9d-4a67-bb3f-217885a85fe3|archive-date=11 October 2017|url-status=dead|access-date=11 October 2017}} The station, which is an infill station with side platforms, was built along an operational section of the line between Sembawang and Yishun. The station cost S$90 million to build,{{cite web|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/work-starts-on-canberra/1809560.html|title=Work starts on Canberra MRT station|website=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=3 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306190102/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/work-starts-on-canberra/1809560.html|archive-date=6 March 2016|url-status=live}} and is meant to serve upcoming developments at the vicinity. Canberra station opened on 2 November 2019.{{cite web | url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/canberra-mrt-station-open-nov-2-lta-11548606 | title=Canberra MRT station to open on Nov 2 | publisher=CNA | date=20 May 2019 | access-date=20 May 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190520150011/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/canberra-mrt-station-open-nov-2-lta-11548606 | archive-date=20 May 2019 | url-status=live }}

On 3 March 2003, a 23-year-old man lost control of his vehicle along Lentor Avenue, crashed through the fence, and landed on a stretch of track between Yio Chu Kang and Khatib stations. The incident forced a train carrying hundreds of commuters to come to a screeching halt, but not before flattening the front of the car. The accident disrupted train services for more than three hours and cost SMRT between S$100,000 and $150,000 in damages and lost revenue.{{cite news | title = Car accident on the MRT track | publisher = RIMAS | date = March 2003 | url = http://www.rimas.org.sg/files/Article%20-%20An%20MRT%20Accident.doc | access-date = 3 February 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120208072834/http://www.rimas.org.sg/files/Article%20-%20An%20MRT%20Accident.doc | archive-date = 8 February 2012 | url-status = dead }}

On 15 December 2011, train services between Bishan and Marina Bay stations were disrupted due to damage sustained on the power rail between City Hall and Dhoby Ghaut. Trains along this stretch were stalled and caused a service disruption until 11:40{{nbsp}}pm on that day.{{cite news|title=North–South MRT line breakdown hits thousands|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1171573/1/.html|newspaper=Channel News Asia|date=15 December 2011|access-date=17 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120329170737/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1171573/1/.html|archive-date=29 March 2012|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.smrt.com.sg/Upload/2011121610464247486.pdf|title=2nd Update – SMRT statement: Service disruption on North–South Line (Northbound): Marina Bay Station to Bishan Station|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414224606/http://www.smrt.com.sg/Upload/2011121610464247486.pdf|archive-date=14 April 2012}} Two days later, a similar problem caused a seven-hour disruption between Ang Mo Kio and Marina Bay.{{cite news | title = MRT breaks down again | newspaper = Channel NewsAsia | date = 17 December 2011 | url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1171888/1/.html | access-date = 17 December 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120107150702/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1171888/1/.html | archive-date = 7 January 2012 | url-status = live }}{{cite news | title = North–South Line service resumes after 7-hour disruption | newspaper = Channel NewsAsia | date = 17 December 2011 | url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1171914/1/.html | access-date = 17 December 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120107185109/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1171914/1/.html | archive-date = 7 January 2012 | url-status = live }} According to SMRT, the disruption was caused by damage to the third rail and the trains' collector shoes. Seven trains were damaged in this incident.{{cite web |url=http://www.smrt.com.sg/Upload/2011121715425352588.pdf |title=Service disruption on North–South Line on 17 Dec 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414224614/http://www.smrt.com.sg/Upload/2011121715425352588.pdf |archive-date=14 April 2012 }} These two service disruptions on the North–South line were both related to damaged rail, and became one of the worst disruption since SMRT's inception in 1987.{{cite news | title = Minister Updates Parliament on MRT Disruptions | publisher = Ministry Of Transport | date = 9 January 2012 | url = http://app.mot.gov.sg/News_Centre/Perspective/VID/68B1100028F13900/Minister_Updates_Parliament_on_MRT_Disruptions.aspx | url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120702205320/http://app.mot.gov.sg/News_Centre/Perspective/VID/68B1100028F13900/Minister_Updates_Parliament_on_MRT_Disruptions.aspx | archive-date = 2 July 2012 | df = dmy-all }}

On 7 July 2015, train services on the North–South and East–West lines were temporarily disrupted due to massive power trips detected along both lines. A cause of the disruption was due to damaged insulators which caused a failure to properly supply power.{{Cite web|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/power-trip-on-mrt-network/2733272.html|title=Power trip on MRT network due to power fault on NSEWL|last=LTA|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160427123605/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/power-trip-on-mrt-network/2733272.html|archive-date=27 April 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite web | last=Tan | first=Christopher | title=Full train service resumes; no suspension of North–South line at 11am | website=The Straits Times | date=7 July 2015 | url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/full-train-service-resumes-no-suspension-of-north-south-line-at-11am | access-date=23 August 2020 | archive-date=23 August 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200823131752/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/full-train-service-resumes-no-suspension-of-north-south-line-at-11am | url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=MRT breakdown: North–South, East–West lines down for hours|last=Tang|first=Louisa|newspaper=Today|location=Singapore|publisher=Mediacorp|date=7 July 2015|url=https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/train-services-down-north-south-and-east-west-lines|access-date=23 August 2020|archive-date=23 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200823131710/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/train-services-down-north-south-and-east-west-lines|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/cause-of-massive-nsewl/2014794.html|title=Cause of massive NSEWL train disruption in July identified, says SMRT|work=CNA|location=Singapore|publisher=Mediacorp|date=22 August 2015|author=Malinda, Kyle|access-date=3 March 2016|archive-date=6 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306190436/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/cause-of-massive-nsewl/2014794.html|url-status=live}} For this disruption that brought inconvenience to 413,000 commuters, LTA imposed a 'record' fine of S$5.4 million on SMRT.{{Cite news |url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/smrt-to-be-fined-a-record/2146104.html |title=SMRT to be fined a record S$5.4m for July 7 MRT breakdown |work=Channel NewsAsia |location=Singapore |date=23 September 2015 |access-date=3 March 2016 |archive-date=17 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160117124430/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/smrt-to-be-fined-a-record/2146104.html |url-status=live }}

On 7 October 2017, a 20-hour long disruption started due to flooding in the tunnels between Braddell station and Bishan station due to a faulty drainage system, resulting in disruption of train services between Ang Mo Kio and Marina South Pier stations in both directions for several hours. A trackside fire between Raffles Place and Marina Bay stations further exacerbated the disruption. Train services between Marina South Pier and Newton resumed at about 9:20{{nbsp}}pm on the same day, followed by Newton and Ang Mo Kio at around 2{{nbsp}}pm the following day.{{Cite news|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/nsl-disruption-flooded-mrt-tunnel-sunday-9290220?view=DEFAULT|title=NSL disruption: No train services between Ang Mo Kio, Newton 'till further notice', says SMRT|work=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=8 October 2017|language=en-SG|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171008044136/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/nsl-disruption-flooded-mrt-tunnel-sunday-9290220?view=DEFAULT|archive-date=8 October 2017|url-status=live}} Although no injuries or casualties were reported, SMRT fired a total of eight employees from the maintenance crew, and incurred a S$2 million fine, following the incident.{{Cite news|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/lta-on-flooded-mrt-tunnel-9290804|title=NSL disruption: Malfunctioning water pumping system resulted in flooded MRT tunnel, says LTA|work=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=8 October 2017|language=en-GB|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171008181159/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/lta-on-flooded-mrt-tunnel-9290804|archive-date=8 October 2017|url-status=live}}

On 14 October 2020, train services from Jurong East to Woodlands stations were disrupted for more than three and a half hours, owing to a faulty power cable, which affected the East–West Line and Circle Line too. The power fault began at 7{{nbsp}}pm and by 7:30{{nbsp}}pm, commuters were stuck in the trains. Free bus bridging services were activated at all affected stations, and bus operators increased the frequency of regular services serving these areas. Service resumed at all stations along the North–South and East–West Lines at 10:35{{nbsp}}pm.{{Cite web|last=hermesauto|date=14 October 2020|title=Train services restored on North–South, East–West, Circle lines after disruption due to power fault|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/power-fault-on-north-south-line-east-west-line-results-in-extra-train-travel|access-date=15 October 2020|website=The Straits Times|language=en|archive-date=15 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201015023308/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/power-fault-on-north-south-line-east-west-line-results-in-extra-train-travel|url-status=live}} A total of 36 stations were affected by the power fault.{{Cite web |title=Oct 14 MRT breakdown: Manufacturer to replace power cables along Tuas West Extension, 2 SMRT staff suspended |url=https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/oct-14-train-breakdown-all-power-cables-trip-coils-along-tuas-west-extension-be-replaced |access-date=1 April 2022 |website=TODAY |language=en |archive-date=1 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220401023420/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/oct-14-train-breakdown-all-power-cables-trip-coils-along-tuas-west-extension-be-replaced |url-status=live }} The incident led to a replacement of 150km of power cables for the Tuas West Extension and two SMRT staff being suspended.

On 27 October 2023, trains skipped Novena MRT station for about 2 hours during the evening travel peak, after an air-conditioning unit filled the underground station with smoke. Free bus bridging services were provided between Newton MRT station and Toa Payoh MRT station, and ended shortly after the station was reopened at around 7:30pm.{{Cite news |last=Hamzah |first=Aqil |date=2023-10-27 |title=Novena MRT station reopens after closure caused by smoke from air-con unit |language=en |work=The Straits Times |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/novena-mrt-station-reopens-after-closure-caused-by-smoke-from-air-conditioning-unit-at-concourse-level |access-date=2023-11-16 |issn=0585-3923}}

On 3 June 2024, around 5.50pm, a lightning strike caused traction power to trip, as well as a small fire breaking out in a power control box next to the train track located about 20 meters from the platform of Kranji MRT station. No injuries were reported. This resulted in train services to be suspended between Choa Chu Kang and Woodlands stations for more than two hours. According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force, the fire had burned itself out before its officers arrived. Train services were progressively restored at 8.10pm.{{Cite news |last=Ang |first=Qing |date=2024-06-03 |title=Lightning strike sparks power trip that disrupted MRT services on NSL for over 2 hours |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/lightning-strike-sparks-power-trip-that-disrupted-mrt-services-on-nsl-for-over-2-hours |access-date=2024-06-03 |work=The Straits Times |language=en |issn=0585-3923}}

File:Singapore NSL Sungei Kadut and Brickland stations.png

{{main|Brickland MRT station|Sungei Kadut MRT station}}

In the Land Transport Master Plan 2040 (LTMP2040), two new infill stations are projected to be built along the existing North–South Line. Brickland station will be built between Bukit Gombak and Choa Chu Kang stations, while Sungei Kadut station will be built between Yew Tee and Kranji stations and provide an additional interchange with the Downtown Line. Both stations are expected to be completed by around mid-2030s.{{cite news|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/new-sungei-kadut-mrt-station-linking-north-south-and-downtown-lines-could|title=New Sungei Kadut MRT station linking North–South and Downtown lines could shorten trips by 30 mins|website=The Straits Times|date=25 May 2019 |access-date=25 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190525105557/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/new-sungei-kadut-mrt-station-linking-north-south-and-downtown-lines-could|archive-date=25 May 2019|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.mot.gov.sg/ltmp2040/|title=Land Transport Master Plan 2040|website=www.mot.gov.sg|access-date=11 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190713174806/https://www.mot.gov.sg/ltmp2040/|archive-date=13 July 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite web |title=Land Transport Master Plan 2040: Bringing Singapore Together {{!}} Press Room {{!}} Land Transport Authority |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=de83f659-4b0d-4609-840e-3deb3ac9b4b9 |website=Land Transport Authority |access-date=26 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190823063103/https://www.lta.gov.sg/apps/news/page.aspx?c=2&id=de83f659-4b0d-4609-840e-3deb3ac9b4b9 |archive-date=23 August 2019 |url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/at-a-glance-key-updates-to-mrt-bus-network-and-more-2040-master-plan | title=At a glance: Key updates to MRT, bus network and more for 2040 master plan | publisher=TODAYonline | date=25 May 2019 | access-date=28 May 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190525141717/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/at-a-glance-key-updates-to-mrt-bus-network-and-more-2040-master-plan | archive-date=25 May 2019 | url-status=live }}

Train services on the North–South Line operates from approximately 5:30{{nbsp}}am to around midnight daily. In general, during peak hours, train frequency is 2 to 3 minutes while during non-peak hours the frequency is reduced to 5 minutes throughout the entire route.{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/getting_around/public_transport/rail_network.html|title=LTA {{!}} Getting Around {{!}} Public Transport {{!}} Rail Network|website=www.lta.gov.sg|access-date=5 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191101093543/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/getting_around/public_transport/rail_network.html|archive-date=1 November 2019|url-status=live}} Each day, the first train begins service at the following timings:

• 4:59 am (5:19 am on Sundays and public holidays) from Jurong East to Yew Tee stations, which will reach one loop at 5:27 am.
• 5:00 am (5:22 am on Sundays and public holidays) from Ang Mo Kio to Yew Tee stations, which will reach Yew Tee at 5:33 am.
• 5:05 am (5:25 am on Sundays and public holidays) from Jurong East to Ang Mo Kio stations, which will reach Ang Mo Kio at 5:48 am.
• 5:10 am (5:30 am on Sundays and public holidays) from Ang Mo Kio as downroute to start at Bishan station, which will reach Bishan at 5:45 am.

Extra downroute trips were added to start from Newton, Bishan and Kranji to cater to the demand. From 11pm onwards, selected trains from Jurong East station will terminate at either Ang Mo Kio, Toa Payoh or Yew Tee stations.{{Cite web|url=http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/jurong-east/first-and-last-train/|title=SMRT Journeys|website=journey.smrt.com.sg|access-date=5 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190904072806/http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/jurong-east/first-and-last-train|archive-date=4 September 2019|url-status=live}} Selected trains departing from Marina South Pier station will also terminate at Kranji, Yishun or Ang Mo Kio stations in the late evenings. There are no express services.{{Cite web|url=http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/marina-south-pier/first-and-last-train/|title=SMRT Journeys|website=journey.smrt.com.sg|access-date=5 April 2020|archive-date=19 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919041252/http://journey.smrt.com.sg/journey/station_info/marina-south-pier/first-and-last-train/|url-status=live}} Additionally, short-working trips do run from Yishun to Marina South Pier, which only operate during peak hours.

In the late 2010s, services on the North–South Line were also subjected to maintenance and renewal works, usually on selected Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays, with shuttle bus services occasionally provided throughout the duration of the early closures and late openings for affected commuters.{{Cite web|url=https://www.smrt.com.sg/Announcements/articleid/1220|title=Early Closure of Selected North–South Line Stations from January to March 2020|website=www.smrt.com.sg|access-date=5 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191229171330/http://www.smrt.com.sg/Announcements/articleid/1220|archive-date=29 December 2019|url-status=live}} Operations of the North–South Line were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to the drop in ridership.{{cite web |title=Last train services for MRT and LRT (Annex B) |url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltagov/news/press/2020/20200414_Last%20train%20service%20for%20MRT%20and%20LRT_AnnexB.pdf |website=LTA |access-date=15 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200417141415/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltagov/news/press/2020/20200414_Last%20train%20service%20for%20MRT%20and%20LRT_AnnexB.pdf |archive-date=17 April 2020 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2020/april/news-releases/Changes_to_public_bus_and_train_operating_hours.html|title=Changes to Public Bus and Train Operating Hours and Frequency|website=www.lta.gov.sg|access-date=15 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200417141400/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2020/april/news-releases/Changes_to_public_bus_and_train_operating_hours.html|archive-date=17 April 2020|url-status=live}}

File:MRT Route Map NS.svg

The North–South line forms an incomplete loop from Jurong East in the West Region of Singapore, north to Woodlands and Sembawang, and south to the Central Area. It is {{convert|45|km|mi}} long and is predominantly double-tracked, but certain short sections at the Woodlands, Yishun and Ang Mo Kio stations widen to three tracks,{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 28 March 2020 |map = Woodlands MRT station |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=19/1.43542/103.78297 |title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }}{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 28 March 2020 |map = Yishun MRT station |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=19/1.43453/103.83434 |title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }}{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 28 March 2020 |map = Ang Mo Kio MRT station |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/node/1839603981#map=17/1.37008/103.84953 |title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020}} and four tracks at Jurong East station.{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 28 March 2020 |map = Jurong East MRT station |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/node/209451066#map=17/1.33348/103.74369 |title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }} The line begins above ground at Jurong East station{{Cite web|url=https://onemap.sg/main/v2/|title=OneMap|website=OneMap|access-date=24 April 2020|archive-date=18 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200418055059/https://www.onemap.sg/main/v2/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/dam/ltagov/getting_around/public_transport/rail_network/pdf/sm-20-03-en-exp.pdf|title=MRT System Map|website=LTA|archive-date=21 August 2020|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|url-status=live}} from where it continues north on a set of elevated viaducts, with the exception of a short tunnel between the Bukit Batok and Bukit Gombak stations,{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 28 March 2020 |map = Tunnel between Bukit Batok and Bukit Gombak |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=19/1.35209/103.75176|title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }} and a surface section of track between the Bukit Gombak and Choa Chu Kang stations.{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 28 March 2020 |map = Surface section of track between Bukit Gombak and Choa Chu Kang |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=18/1.37540/103.74391|title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }} The line curves from the Yew Tee to Kranji stations and continues eastwards, paralleling Woodlands Avenue 3 (which the line briefly cuts underneath between Kranji and Marsiling stations){{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 28 March 2020 |map = Tunnel underneath Woodlands Avenue 3 |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=18/1.42887/103.76629|title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }} and Avenue 7 main roads.{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 31 March 2020 |map = NSL along Avenue 7 |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=17/1.43929/103.79270|title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }}

After Sembawang station, the line follows the route of Canberra Link and Yishun Avenue 2, curving southwards. Between Khatib and Yio Chu Kang stations parallel to Lentor Avenue, the line continues at surface level; this section is the longest distance between any two MRT stations in Singapore.{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 28 March 2020 |map = Surface section of track between Khatib and Yio Chu Kang |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=17/1.39679/103.83200|title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }} The line continues above ground for the Yio Chu Kang and Ang Mo Kio stations, then it goes back to surface level for Bishan station, the MRT system's only at-grade station. A branch line to Bishan Depot exists between the Ang Mo Kio and Bishan stations.{{Cite map |author = OpenStreetMap contributors |date = 31 March 2020 |map = Bishan Depot |map-url = https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/633298871| title = OpenStreetMap |access-date = 28 March 2020 }} After Bishan, the line goes underground through the Central Area. The North–South Line runs parallel to the East–West Line at the City Hall and Raffles Place stations, which are also cross-platform interchanges to the East–West Line. The line ends at Marina South Pier station.

The line serves 27 MRT stations across {{convert|45|km|mi}} of track, and station codes for the line are red, corresponding to the line's colour on the system map.{{cite web|url=http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/projects/north-south-line.html|title=North–South Line|access-date=24 December 2015|publisher=Land Transport Authority|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170107085131/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/projects/north-south-line.html|archive-date=7 January 2017|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/projects/north-south-line-extension.html|title=North–South Line Extension|website=LTA|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120930005359/http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/projects/north-south-line-extension.html|archive-date=30 September 2012|url-status=dead|access-date=11 October 2017}} 11 stations, from Braddell to Marina South Pier are underground, with the rest being ground-level or elevated.{{cite book |author= |title=Singapore Bilingual Street Directory |publisher=Mighty Minds Publishing Pte Ltd |page= fold out map |date= 2017 |isbn=9789812501189}} With the exception of Bishan, Braddell and Canberra stations, the other stations have island platforms.

Legend

List

{{multiple image

| align = center

| direction = horizontal

| header = A variety of rolling stock on the North-South Line

| header_align = center

| image1 = Bishan Depot trains.jpg

| caption1 = Various older generation rolling stock of the North-South Line parked at Bishan Depot.

| width1 = {{#expr: (150 * 1600/ 1200) round 0}}

| image2 = C151C, Choa Chu Kang MRT Station.jpg

| caption2 = A newer rolling stock C151C at Choa Chu Kang MRT Station

| width2 = {{#expr: (150 * 1600/ 1200) round 0}}

}}

Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) trains on the North–South Line operate in a six-car formation, based out of Bishan Depot and Ulu Pandan Depot, which provide train maintenance, inspection and overhaul facilities.{{Cite news|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19840610-1.2.36|title=10 shortlisted for Bishan Depot deal|date=10 June 1984|work=The Straits Times|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011182744/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19840610-1.2.36|archive-date=11 October 2017|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/biztimes19861017-1.2.10.14|title=Building the MRT's third depot|date=17 October 1986|work=The Straits Times|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011183249/http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/biztimes19861017-1.2.10.14|archive-date=11 October 2017|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/north-south-line-signalling-system-to-take-up-to-6-months-to-9031560|title=North–South Line signalling system to take up to 6 months to stabilise|work=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=11 October 2017|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171119100248/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/north-south-line-signalling-system-to-take-up-to-6-months-to-9031560|archive-date=19 November 2017|url-status=live}} This rolling stock is shared with the East–West Line, with an electrification of 750 V DC powered by a third rail. With the exception of the C651 and R151 trains, the current rolling stock was manufactured by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, in a joint venture with CRRC Qingdao Sifang for the subsequent rolling stocks of the C151A, C151B and C151C trains.{{Cite web|url=https://www.khi.co.jp/mobility/rail/export.html|title=海外向け車両 {{!}} 鉄道車両|website=川崎重工業株式会社|language=ja|access-date=8 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190922082314/http://www.khi.co.jp/mobility/rail/export.html|archive-date=22 September 2019|url-status=live}} When the initial line opened, the rolling stock of the North–South Line consisted of 66 first-generation C151 trains only. The 19 second-generation C651 trains were introduced during the Woodlands extension to complement the existing 66 first-generation C151 trains.{{Cite news|title=$290 million contracts for Woodlands MRT line|date=16 August 1992|work=The Straits Times}} The 21 third-generation C751B trains were introduced during the Changi Airport extension to complement the existing 66 first-generation C151 trains and 19 second-generation C651 trains.{{cite web | title = EMU Trains for the Singapore Land Transport Authority | url = http://www.khi.co.jp/english/rs/product/detail/pro_singapore.html | publisher = Kawasaki Heavy Industries | access-date = 5 November 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121231070440/http://www.khi.co.jp/english/rs/product/detail/pro_singapore.html | archive-date = 31 December 2012 | url-status = live }}{{Cite web|url=https://global.kawasaki.com/en/mobility/rail/rapid_transit/index.html|title=Rapid Transit {{!}} Kawasaki Heavy Industries|website=global.kawasaki.com|access-date=8 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200408010932/https://global.kawasaki.com/en/mobility/rail/rapid_transit/index.html|archive-date=8 April 2020|url-status=live}} In 2011, the fourth-generation C151A trains were introduced, increasing the passenger capacity of both the North–South and East–West lines by 15%.{{cite web |url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view//extra-metro-trains-for-singapore.html |title=Extra metro trains for Singapore |publisher=Railway Gazette International |date=7 May 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091113051116/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/extra-metro-trains-for-singapore.html |archive-date=13 November 2009 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.smrt.com.sg/Upload/20115161592799442.pdf |title=Five new trains added to boost capacity of North–South and East–West Lines |publisher=SMRT Corporation |date=16 May 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927090934/http://www.smrt.com.sg/Upload/20115161592799442.pdf |archive-date=27 September 2011 }}{{Cite web|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_733460.html|title=Train capacity to rise by up to 50% in 4 years|access-date=8 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120229180453/http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_733460.html|archive-date=29 February 2012|url-status=live}} The C151A trains were the first successful joint venture between Kawasaki Heavy Industries and CSR Qingdao Sifang in the international market.{{cite web|url=http://www.csrgc.com.cn/ens/xwzx/2009-05-13/1277.shtml |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120723075002/http://www.csrgc.com.cn/ens/xwzx/2009-05-13/1277.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 July 2012 |title=CSR Sifang and Kawasaki Heavy Industries Won the Bid in the Subway Vehicle Project of Singapore |date=13 May 2009 |access-date=8 February 2012 }}

As part of efforts to further increase passenger capacity on the line, newer C151B and C151C trains were subsequently delivered in 2017 and 2018 respectively.{{cite web | title = New signalling system trials extended to full day every Sunday: SMRT, LTA | url = http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/new-signalling-system-trials-extended-to-full-day-every-sunday/3671664.html | publisher = Channel NewsAsia | date = 12 April 2017 | access-date = 8 April 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170415202840/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/new-signalling-system-trials-extended-to-full-day-every-sunday/3671664.html | archive-date = 15 April 2017 | url-status = live }}{{Cite web|url=http://global.kawasaki.com/en/corp/newsroom/news/detail/?f=20150922_0034|title=LTA Singapore Orders 12 MRT Trains (72 cars) for North–South/East–West Lines {{!}} Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.|date=29 April 2016|access-date=8 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160429033133/http://global.kawasaki.com/en/corp/newsroom/news/detail/?f=20150922_0034|archive-date=29 April 2016}} The introduction of the C151B trains saw the introduction of STARiS 2.0, which is also seen in subsequent rolling stocks.{{cite web | url = http://www.smrt.com.sg/Media/Press-release/News/articleid/733/%20News%20Releases/parentId/180/year/2016?category=Announcements%20 | title = SMRT Boosts Service Excellence Efforts with first Customer Experience Innovation Conference | publisher = SMRT Corporation | date = 21 January 2016 | access-date = 8 April 2020 | archive-date = 19 September 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200919041330/http://www.smrt.com.sg/News-Room/Announcements-News-Releases/articleid/733/%20News%20Releases/parentId/180/year/2016?category=Announcements+ | url-status = live }} The C151C trains are also the first MRT rolling stock on the NSEWL to be fitted with tip-up seats, in addition to the current features of the C151B trains.{{Cite news|last=Tan|first=Christopher|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/smrt-adding-12-trains-to-two-most-heavily-used-lines|title=SMRT adding 12 trains to two most heavily used lines|date=14 August 2018|work=The Straits Times|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200408010247/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/smrt-adding-12-trains-to-two-most-heavily-used-lines|archive-date=8 April 2020}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2015/9/2/12-more-trains-to-boost-capacity-of-north-south-and-east-west-lines.html|title=LTA {{!}} News Room {{!}} News Releases {{!}} 12 More Trains to Boost Capacity of North–South and East–West Lines|website=www.lta.gov.sg|access-date=15 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191227140330/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2015/9/2/12-more-trains-to-boost-capacity-of-north-south-and-east-west-lines.html|archive-date=27 December 2019|url-status=live}}

Another generation of rolling stock, the R151 trains, will be delivered from 2022 to 2026, to replace all 66 first-generation C151 trains which will be retired by 2025, as well as all 19 second-generation C651 and 21 third-generation C751B trains which were fully phased out by 2024. The R151 trains will be the first rolling stock on the North–South Line to be manufactured by Bombardier Transportation (Bought by Alstom in 2021), which has also supplied trains for the Downtown Line.{{Cite web|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2018/7/2/bombardier-to-supply-66-new-trains-for-north-south-and-east-west-lines.html|title=LTA {{!}} News Room {{!}} News Releases {{!}} Bombardier to Supply 66 New Trains for North–South and East–West Lines|website=www.lta.gov.sg|access-date=8 February 2020|archive-date=15 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191115185341/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2018/7/2/bombardier-to-supply-66-new-trains-for-north-south-and-east-west-lines.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/new-fleet-to-replace-66-oldest-mrt-trains-from-2021-10561652|title=New fleet to replace 66 oldest MRT trains from 2021|work=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=25 July 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=25 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180725183703/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/new-fleet-to-replace-66-oldest-mrt-trains-from-2021-10561652|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/bombardier-awarded-12-billion-contract-to-replace-66-oldest-mrt-trains|title=Bombardier awarded $1.2 billion contract to replace 66 oldest MRT trains|last=hermesauto|date=25 July 2018|work=The Straits Times|access-date=25 July 2018|language=en|archive-date=18 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218205005/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/bombardier-awarded-12-billion-contract-to-replace-66-oldest-mrt-trains|url-status=live}}

Initially, the North–South line used a semi-automatic signalling system consisting of the Westinghouse fixed block signalling system with automatic train control under automatic train operation Grades of Automation (GoA) 2.{{Cite web|last=Woodland|first=Daniel|date=August 2004|title=Optimisation of Automatic Train Protection Systemstion Systems|url=http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/14543/1/531116.pdf|page=Appendix C Page 32 to Page 33|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615155037/http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/14543/1/531116.pdf|archive-date=15 June 2020|access-date=15 June 2020}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/%20Oral%20Reply%20by%20Minister%20for%20Transport%20Khaw%20Boon%20Wan%20to%20Parliamentary%20Question%20on%20North-South%20Line%20Resignalling(1)/|title=Oral Reply by Minister for Transport Khaw Boon Wan to Parliamentary Question on North–South Line Resignalling|website=www.mot.gov.sg|language=en|access-date=25 April 2020|archive-date=16 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200616000115/https://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/%20Oral%20Reply%20by%20Minister%20for%20Transport%20Khaw%20Boon%20Wan%20to%20Parliamentary%20Question%20on%20North-South%20Line%20Resignalling(1)/|url-status=live}} However, the ageing system had undermined the rail reliability on the line, requiring the NSL to upgrade its signalling system.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Speech%20by%20Minister%20Khaw%20Boon%20Wan%20at%20the%20Fourth%20Joint%20Forum%20on%20Infrastructure%20Maintenance/|title=Speech by Minister Khaw Boon Wan at the Fourth Joint Forum on Infrastructure Maintenance|website=www.mot.gov.sg|language=en|access-date=25 April 2020|archive-date=19 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919041330/https://www.mot.gov.sg/news-centre/news/Detail/Speech%20by%20Minister%20Khaw%20Boon%20Wan%20at%20the%20Fourth%20Joint%20Forum%20on%20Infrastructure%20Maintenance/|url-status=live}} Since 2019, the North–South Line is fully equipped with Thales SelTrac Communications-based train control moving block signalling system with automatic train control under automatic train operation (ATO) GoA 3.{{Cite web|url=https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/press-release/thales-awarded-signalling-contracts-singapore-north-south-east-west-lines-and-tuas|title=Thales awarded signalling contracts for Singapore North–South, East–West lines and Tuas West Extension|website=www.thalesgroup.com|language=en|access-date=4 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170820160452/https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/press-release/thales-awarded-signalling-contracts-singapore-north-south-east-west-lines-and-tuas|archive-date=20 August 2017|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.uitp.org/sites/default/files/Metro%20automation%20-%20facts%20and%20figures.pdf|title=Metro automation facts, figures and trends|website=International Association of Public Transport|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160501034433/http://www.uitp.org/sites/default/files/Metro%20automation%20-%20facts%20and%20figures.pdf|archive-date=1 May 2016}} The subsystems consist of automatic train protection to govern train speed, NetTrac MT Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) to track and schedule trains and a Computer-based interlocking system that prevents incorrect signal and track points to be set.{{cite web |url= https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/content/thales-awarded-signalling-contracts-singapore-north-south-east-west-lines-and-tuas-west |title= Thales awarded signalling contracts for Singapore North–South, East–West lines and Tuas West Extension |date= 6 February 2012 |publisher= Thales Group |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150630183155/https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/content/thales-awarded-signalling-contracts-singapore-north-south-east-west-lines-and-tuas-west |archive-date= 30 June 2015 |df= dmy-all }}

A new moving-block signalling system, supplied by Thales, replaced the ageing fixed-block signalling system on the North–South Line. The upgrading works were completed in phases from 2016. With the upgraded signalling system, trains are now able to run closer to each other.{{Cite web|title=THALES Urban Rail Signalling Singapore – North–South / East-West Lines|url=http://tda-armements.com/sites/default/files/asset/document/seltracr_in_singapore.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615163959/http://tda-armements.com/sites/default/files/asset/document/seltracr_in_singapore.pdf|archive-date=15 June 2020|access-date=16 June 2020}}{{cite web|last1=LTA Website|url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/projects/north-south-line.html|title=North–South Line Signal Upgrade|website=Land Transport Authority|access-date=21 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617192724/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/public-transport/projects/north-south-line.html|archive-date=17 June 2018|url-status=live}} The new system was tested on the evening of 28 March 2017. Train services were paused for ten minutes as the old signalling system was being changed to the new system.{{cite web | title=Joint Media Release by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) & SMRT – New Signalling System Trial on North–South Line Begins on 28 March 2017 | website=LTA | date=28 March 2017 | url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2017/3/2/joint-media-release-by-the-land-transport-authority-lta-smrt---new-signalling-system-trial-on-north-south-line-begins-o.html | access-date=22 April 2020 | archive-date=19 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919041330/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2017/3/2/joint-media-release-by-the-land-transport-authority-lta-smrt---new-signalling-system-trial-on-north-south-line-begins-o.html | url-status=live }} From 16 April 2017, the new system commenced full-day testing on Sundays for two months. The new C151B rolling stock were first introduced to the line on these testing days.{{cite web | title=Factsheet by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) & SMRT: Full-day Sunday Trial of New Signalling System for North–South Line from 16 April 2017 | website=LTA | date=16 April 2017 | url=https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2017/4/2/factsheet-by-the-land-transport-authority-lta-smrt-full-day-sunday-trial-of-new-signalling-system-for-north-south-line-.html | access-date=22 April 2020 | archive-date=19 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919041330/https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/newsroom/2017/4/2/factsheet-by-the-land-transport-authority-lta-smrt-full-day-sunday-trial-of-new-signalling-system-for-north-south-line-.html | url-status=live }} Since 28 May 2017, the new signalling system has been operating full-day on the North–South Line.{{Cite web|url=http://blog.smrt.com.sg/7-questions-about-smrt-trains-new-signalling-system/|title=7 Questions about SMRT Trains' New Signalling System – SMRT Blog|website=blog.smrt.com.sg|date=6 June 2017 |language=en-GB|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011182458/http://blog.smrt.com.sg/7-questions-about-smrt-trains-new-signalling-system/|archive-date=11 October 2017|url-status=live}} The old signalling system then ceased operations on 2 January 2019.

File:Toapayohmrtplatform.jpg

When the line was first opened, full-height platform screen doors supplied by Westinghouse were installed at underground stations. These doors serve to prevent suicides, enable climate control within the station, better security control by restricting access to the tunnels and tracks and for overall passenger safety considerations.[http://www.platformscreendoors.com/psd/projects/massrapid.php Westinghouse Platform Screen Doors – Completed Projects] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080213223641/http://www.platformscreendoors.com/psd/projects/massrapid.php |date=13 February 2008 }} The authorities initially rejected calls for platform screen doors to be installed at elevated stations by casting doubts over functionality and concerns about the high installation costs.{{cite press release|url=http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=1090 |title=Safety at MRT and LRT Stations — Respect The Yellow line |publisher=Land Transport Authority |date=20 November 2005 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927182635/http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=1090 |archive-date=27 September 2007 }} Nevertheless, the LTA reversed its decision and made plans to install half-height platform screen doors on elevated stations on 25 January 2008.{{cite news |work=The Straits Times |title=Platform screen doors for all above-ground MRT stations by 2012 |date=25 January 2008 |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/Latest+News/Singapore/STIStory_199958.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080128072930/http://www.straitstimes.com/Latest+News/Singapore/STIStory_199958.html|archive-date=28 January 2008}}{{cite press release|url=http://www.mot.gov.sg/News-Centre/News/2008/Speech-By-Mr-Raymond-Lim-At-The-Visit-To-Kim-Chuan-Depot-on-25-January-2008/|title=Speech by Mr Raymond Lim, Minister for Transport, at the Visit to Kim Chuan Depot, 25 January 2008, 9.00am|publisher=Ministry of Transport|date=25 January 2008|access-date=11 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150112142646/http://www.mot.gov.sg/News-Centre/News/2008/Speech-By-Mr-Raymond-Lim-At-The-Visit-To-Kim-Chuan-Depot-on-25-January-2008/|archive-date=12 January 2015|url-status=dead}} The first platform screen doors by ST Electronics were installed at Pasir Ris, Jurong East and Yishun stations in 2009 as trial runs.{{cite news |title=Platform doors for elevated MRT stations |author=Yeo Ghim Lay |date=3 September 2008 |work=The Straits Times |page=26| url=http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_416017.html| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090816160221/http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking+News/Singapore/Story/STIStory_416017.html | archive-date=16 August 2009|url-status=dead}} Subsequently, installation began in May 2011 at Ang Mo Kio station. On 14 March 2012, platform screen doors became operational at all elevated stations on the North–South Line.{{Cite news|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/lta-completes-installing-elevated-mrt-station-screen-doors-early-8443586|title=LTA completes installing elevated MRT station screen doors early|work=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=23 September 2017|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170924001503/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/lta-completes-installing-elevated-mrt-station-screen-doors-early-8443586|archive-date=24 September 2017|url-status=live}}

The NSL was built with wooden sleepers, which needed to be replaced when they neared the end of their lifespan of 15 to 25 years. The replacement sleepers, made out of concrete, have a significantly longer lifespan and enable smoother and safer rides.{{Cite web|url=http://blog.smrt.com.sg/smrt-rail-improvements/|title=SMRT Rail Improvements – Updates – SMRT Blog|website=blog.smrt.com.sg|date=17 October 2016 |language=en-GB|access-date=19 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170923144948/http://blog.smrt.com.sg/smrt-rail-improvements/|archive-date=23 September 2017|url-status=live}} Since 2014, train services on the line have ended earlier for critical maintenance works, with the exception of a break between September 2016 and December 2016.{{Cite news|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/project-to-replace-mrt-sleepers-done|title=Project to replace MRT sleepers done|newspaper=The Straits Times |date=25 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329142812/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/project-to-replace-mrt-sleepers-done|archive-date=29 March 2017|url-status=live}}

Trains on the NSL are powered via a third rail. However, constant contact between the train's Current Collector Devices (CCD) and the line saw the need for replacement works on the third rail, which were completed in August 2017.{{Cite web|url=https://www.smrt.com.sg/Portals/0/Factsheet_%20Power%20Rail%20Replacement_vF_1.pdf|title=Factsheet on Power Rail Replacement Programme for the North–South and East–West Lines (NSEWL)|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170923144946/https://www.smrt.com.sg/Portals/0/Factsheet_%20Power%20Rail%20Replacement_vF_1.pdf|archive-date=23 September 2017|url-status=dead}} The new third rail replaced its 30-year-old predecessor, which was used since the opening of the line. The new electrical system is expected to make train services more reliable.{{Cite web|url=http://blog.smrt.com.sg/third-rail-replacement-of-the-north-south-east-west-line/|title=Third Rail Replacement on North South and East West Line|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170216050249/http://blog.smrt.com.sg/third-rail-replacement-of-the-north-south-east-west-line/|archive-date=16 February 2017|url-status=live}}

{{reflist|group=note}}

{{reflist|30em}}

{{commons category}}

• [https://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltagov/en/getting_around/public_transport/rail_network/north_south_line.html North–South Line]

{{portalbar|Trains|Singapore}}

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

{{Rail transport in Singapore}}

{{Urban Rail Transit in ASEAN}}

Category:Mass Rapid Transit (Singapore) lines

Category:Railway lines opened in 1987

Category:1987 establishments in Singapore

{{DEFAULTSORT:North-South MRT line}}