SINGAPORE — Transport authorities have advised commuters to reconsider their travel plans as a scheduled disruption on the Circle Line (CCL) is set to take place from 17 January to 19 April 2026, affecting approximately 480,000 daily riders. 

During the three-month maintenance period, services between Mountbatten, Dakota and Paya Lebar MRT stations will be significantly altered as part of essential tunnel strengthening works. Trains will operate on a single platform between these stations, leading to longer wait times and service adjustments. 

Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow noted that while trains will still be in operation, headways are expected to be extended to around 10 minutes, meaning some commuters may experience up to 30 minutes of additional travel time during peak periods. 

Commuters are encouraged to make use of alternative travel options where possible. For example, passengers travelling from the northeast to the western parts of Singapore may choose to travel via the North East Line (NEL) to Outram Park and transfer to the East-West Line (EWL) instead of relying on the Circle Line. 

To support commuters during the disruption, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has deployed shuttle bus services and additional staff to assist with crowd management and wayfinding from the start of the maintenance period. 

The tunnel works are part of long-term efforts to maintain the structural integrity of Singapore’s rail infrastructure and prepare for the full completion of the Circle Line network later in 2026.