Singapore Commuters Brace for Major Delays: Simei and Tanah Merah MRT Stations to Close from Nov 29-Dec 8!

Published on November 22, 2025

In a recent announcement, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore has informed the public about the upcoming closure of two significant stations on the East-West Line (EWL)—Simei and Tanah Merah MRT stations. This closure, set to take place from November 29 to December 8, 2025, will affect both regular commuters and tourists, especially those relying on the MRT for transit across the East region. Passengers are advised to prepare for potential delays, crowded stations, and additional travel time during this period.

Reasons for the Closure: Track and Platform Upgrades

The LTA has explained that this closure is necessary to complete essential upgrade works. The construction efforts include connecting the existing East-West Line to the East Coast Integrated Depot (ECID) and expanding Tanah Merah station by adding a new platform. These works are vital to enhancing the capacity and efficiency of the MRT system, ultimately benefiting commuters in the long term.

The LTA estimates that as many as 180,000 passengers will be impacted daily by these adjustments, which will stretch across the 10-day closure period. The disruptions may result in journey times being prolonged by as much as 30 minutes, particularly during peak hours. With large volumes of commuters expected, delays and congestion at the affected stations are inevitable.

Affected MRT Routes and Adjustments

During the closure, train services will be suspended between Bedok and Tampines stations, as well as between Tanah Merah and Expo stations. The disruption will significantly affect the regular flow of commuters traveling along the East-West Line, which typically serves a high number of passengers during the morning and evening rush hours.

In response to this disruption, the LTA has announced several measures to mitigate the inconvenience for commuters. Firstly, trains between Tampines and Pasir Ris stations will operate at a reduced frequency of five minutes. Similarly, between Paya Lebar and Bedok, the waiting times will be extended to eight minutes. Train services between Expo and Changi Airport stations will continue with a frequency of five minutes during peak hours to cater to travelers heading to the airport.

Alternative Travel Options for Commuters

For those affected by the closure of Simei and Tanah Merah MRT stations, the LTA has suggested using alternative modes of transport. Existing public bus services are available to help connect commuters to other MRT lines, such as the Downtown Line, which can be accessed through nearby interchange stations. This option allows passengers to bypass the closed sections and continue their journeys with fewer delays.

Moreover, for those traveling between the affected stations, shuttle bus services have been arranged. Shuttle 7 will run between Bedok and Tampines stations with a frequency of 3 to 5 minutes, while Shuttle 8 will operate between Bedok and Expo stations at a slightly longer frequency of 10 minutes. These shuttle buses will provide a direct, efficient alternative for commuters to travel across the affected sections, helping to minimize the impact of the station closures on daily travel.

Tips for Commuters During the Closure

Given the expected congestion and longer travel times, commuters are strongly advised to plan their journeys in advance. The LTA’s MyTransport.SG mobile app and official social media channels will provide the latest updates on the status of the closures and real-time travel information. By utilizing these resources, passengers can stay informed and avoid unnecessary delays.

For added assistance, SMRT staff will be stationed at the affected stations to guide and support commuters during the adjustment period. Station posters will also provide information on alternative travel options, and passengers can collect brochures from passenger service centers at various MRT stations for a detailed list of recommended routes.

Commuters traveling through the closed stations are encouraged to consider alternative MRT routes to shorten their travel times. Some stations along the East-West Line may provide faster connections and serve as viable alternatives to the affected areas. By making use of these alternatives, passengers can continue their daily routines with minimal disruptions.

The Bigger Picture: Longer-Term Improvements for the MRT System

This closure, though inconvenient, is part of the ongoing efforts to improve the MRT system and its infrastructure. Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow has emphasized the need for periodic closures to complete necessary upgrades that will make the system more efficient and reliable in the future. With rapid urbanization and an increasing population, it is crucial for the government to enhance the capacity of the public transport network to meet the growing demands of commuters.

The LTA has acknowledged that while these closures may disrupt travel in the short term, the long-term benefits of the upgrades will outweigh the temporary inconvenience. More frequent and reliable services will eventually be offered, ensuring a more efficient commuting experience for Singapore‘s residents and visitors.

Looking Ahead: More Scheduled Closures for MRT Upgrades

The closure of Simei and Tanah Merah stations is just one in a series of planned disruptions as part of Singapore’s broader commitment to maintaining and upgrading its MRT network. In a statement made earlier in November, Minister Siow indicated that future closures would be scheduled over longer periods to ensure that essential repair works and system upgrades are completed efficiently and safely.

This approach reflects a shift in how the government plans to improve the MRT system. Rather than relying solely on early closures and late openings of stations to extend maintenance hours, more comprehensive and prolonged closures will be implemented to expedite repairs and reduce long-term delays. This strategy will ensure that commuters can continue to rely on a high-quality, safe, and efficient public transport system.

Conclusion

The closure of Simei and Tanah Merah MRT stations from November 29 to December 8, 2025, will cause significant disruption to commuters on the East-West Line. However, with careful planning and alternative travel options in place, the inconvenience can be minimized. The LTA and SMRT are taking proactive measures to assist passengers and ensure that they have access to accurate information. Commuters are encouraged to remain patient, plan their journeys in advance, and use the available resources to stay informed about the latest updates. While the temporary disruptions are expected, these upgrades will ultimately enhance the efficiency and reliability of Singapore’s MRT system, benefiting all who rely on it.