SMRT kicks off $47.3m escalator upgrading project in 42 stations

The revamp of 233 escalators will finish by end-2021.

Commuters will have to bear some inconvenience in exchange of a better travel experience at MRT stations as SMRT began refurbishing escalators along the North-South East-West Lines (NSEWL).

According to SMRT, this is the first major refitting of escalators at stations since the MRT started running in 1987.
A total of 233 escalators at 42 stations along NSEWL will turn to newer and more energy efficient escalators as part of SMRT’s multi-year, multi-programme initiative to rehabilitate the decades-long facilities.

The upgrade, which includes installation of new parts such as traction motors and ‘traffic lights’ that indicate direction of travel, has been contracted to OTIS Singapore for $47.3 million.

It is expected to be completed by end of 2021 with each refurbishment taking eight to ten weeks to complete.

“To minimise inconvenience to commuters, refurbishment work will be carried out on only one escalator at a time at each station. Construction hoardings will screen off the work areas for safety and carry information on how the escalator refurbishments will be carried out,” SMRT assured the commuters.

Work at Ang Mo Kio MRT station has already commenced. Joining the first set of stations to have new escalators are Tanah Merah MRT station, where work will begin later this month, and Tanjong Pagar MRT station in November this year.