Phase One of SMRT's sleeper programme to start on 26 November

Phase One of SMRT's sleeper replacement programme will start this Monday along stretches of the North-South Line. 

The programme is part of the on-going upgrading and renewal of the ageing MRT system. 

The timber sleepers are part of the rail support system. 

Phase One will involve replacing nearly 6,300 sleepers along 4.4 kilometres of tracks between Kranji and Yishun stations. 

SMRT said to avoid any disruption, replacement works will be done during non-passenger service hours on weekdays, usually between 1am and 4.30am, and between two stations each night. 

Replacement works along most sections will be limited to no more than six to eight weeks. 

SMRT added it's exploring other ways to complete the works in the most efficient and least disruptive manner. 

This includes the possibility of starting and ending train services later or earlier, during selected weekends. 

These planned closures will be publicised in advance. 

SMRT added train services may also be delayed or disrupted and affected stations may be closed temporarily. 

The public will be updated via local radio stations, SMRT's Twitter account (@SMRT_Singapore), the SMRTConnect App (iPhone, iPad and iPod), or through itswebsite.

Giving an update, SMRT said some 4,100 timber sleepers along both the North-South and East-West Lines have been replaced since January. 

The overall sleeper replacement programme, which covers about 131 kilometres of tracks, along both lines, is expected to be completed in 2019.