http://www.straitstimes.com/ST%2BFor...ry_252974.html

June 30, 2008

New Circle Line doesn't benefit those in West Coast


I RECENTLY read about the Circle Line and am puzzled by the 'bias' of the line from HarbourFront linking to West Coast areas such as Labrador Park and Kent Ridge.

I followed the track and found it does not link to MRT stations such as Newton, Orchard or Somerset. The nearest to the Orchard area is Botanic Gardens.

On the other hand, other MRT lines covering the heartland, such as Woodlands, Ang Mo Kio and Tampines, go to these Orchard area MRT stations.

The MRT line from Woodlands goes to another heartland area such as Ang Mo Kio and then to Orchard MRT station.

The line from Tampines eventually reaches Newton and Chinatown MRT stations.

I would like to ask the authorities how the Circle Line will benefit those living in the western part of Singapore?

There is no direct or new MRT line which passes through Boon Lay and Jurong East MRT station that goes towards the city by a faster route (going by the number of stations).

Why does the new Circle Line benefit most heartland residents except those who live in the western part of Singapore?

Tan Shao Ken