Two-car system for Sengkang Punggol LRT by 2016

Commuters travelling on the Sengkang Punggol LRT can expect to see service improvements from 2016. 

By then, the current single-car system will be converted into a two-car system. 

The Land Transport Authority will also be adding 16 new trains cars- bringing the total fleet size to 57.

The move will boost capacity by about 40 percent. 

16 of the existing train cars will also be modified to make them suited for two-car operations. 

Minister of State for Transport Josephine Teo announced the plans, during a visit to Sengkang MRT this morning. 

She said the improvements aim to cater to rising ridership on the line.

"More Singaporeans are choosing to live in the Sengkang and Punggol areas and so the LTA conducted a technical feasibility study to see if we can convert the existing LRT system from a one car system to a two- car system, so I am sure the residents of these towns, both those who are already living here and will be living here in the future will welcome the news that we will have a two-car system."

System upgrading and modification works will start by the middle of next year. 

Improvements will also be done to the Bukit Panjang LRT line. 

The LRT station at Choa Chu Kang will have two platforms added specifically for commuters getting off the trains. 

The aim is to let the existing platform located in the centre to have more space to cater to boarding passengers. 

There will also be additional fare-gates and a new covered linkway from the LRT station to Lot 1 Shopping Mall. 

All improvements will also be completed by 2016.