Circle Line now open for boarding - Channel NewsAsia

Circle Line now open for boarding - Channel NewsAsia

By Dylan Loh | Posted: 08 October 2011 1053 hrs

SINGAPORE: Singapore's Circle Line rail network got off to a start on the first day of full operations, with the remaining 12 train stations from HarbourFront to Caldecott opening on Saturday morning.

It's also the first day of higher fares for bus and train rides, with adults who use the EZ-link card paying about two cents more per ride.

But that didn't stop self-professed trainspotter Jay Tan from hopping on.

The 23-year-old waiter took one of the first trains out, just after 5.30am.

He said: "Well I'm on one of the first trains out and it's been a smooth journey so far. Very few people on board. I suspect because most would prefer sleeping in on a Saturday morning. But not reporters like me, my hardworking camera crew and of course, a few train enthusiasts.

"I'm too excited, I (couldn't) sleep last night ... I wanted to board the first train. I also like to board the bus, take a bus photo at the bus stop outside the bus interchange doing bus spotting or trainspotting, sometimes. Like either the new train or new bus, I really like it very much."

Another commuter Samuel Gan said: "The air-con was like malfunctioning because like one moment was like you are in the desert, then suddenly in the other moment like you are in the Arctic."

Several commuters said they'll switch to the Circle Line.

A girl said:" "The bus service is very crowded, quite jam after work. So I need to use this."

A man said: "It's a very good connector to people and places. I really am glad that it is done after so many years."

Another commuter shared the same sentiment: "It's very convenient for me. Otherwise, I need to take the bus."

With plenty of other passengers expected, preparations were in place to welcome them.

Jack Chan, manager, Station Operations, SMRT Rail Operations Division, said: "We have over 200 over staff who have gone through six months of intensive training. (Additionally) they have actually also gone through three months of trial running to lead-up until today.

"(Also) we have employed about 50 over staff for the first week for this opening, most of which we have concentrated at the interchanges because we expect more people at these stations."

With the Circle Line fully open, travel time can be shortened by up to 17 minutes.

- CNA/CK