A train fault caused a 40-minute disruption on the Circle Line on Monday morning (1 Sept), affecting commuters travelling between Marina Bay and Promenade stations.
SMRT first announced the fault at 8.41am, confirming there was no train service along the affected stretch.
Source: r/SMRTRabak on Reddit
Bayfront station was also impacted.
To assist commuters, free regular bus services were activated between Marina Bay and Promenade, while station staff were deployed to guide passengers.
Alternative travel routes were also advised, including transfers at Dhoby Ghaut or Bishan for the North-South Line, Caldecott for the Thomson-East Coast Line, and Promenade or MacPherson for the Downtown Line.
By 9.11am, services began resuming progressively, and full operations were restored at 9.17am.
In a Facebook post after the incident, SMRT Trains President Lam Sheau Kai said staff were “immediately deployed” to the site and “worked diligently” to resolve the fault.
He explained that the affected train was moved towards the overrun tracks to clear the line, allowing services to progressively resume.
“We apologise for the disruption during the morning peak commute and sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding,” Mr Lam added.
Some netizens noted the unfortunate timing of the fault, with one commenting that it coincided with “heavy rain” and the “first day of work” of the week.
Source: Facebook
Despite the disruption, several commuters praised SMRT for “providing prompt information” and “clear alternative travel routes”.
They also expressed appreciation to frontline staff for their efforts in resolving the issue.
Source: Facebook
This latest incident comes just days after the Downtown Line faced an early morning disruption on 28 Aug, which halted services at Cashew, Hillview, and Hume stations for about an hour.
It was the fourth train disruption reported that month.
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Featured image adapted from r/SMRTRabak on Reddit and SMRT on Facebook.