SINGAPORE — Service disruption on the Circle Line (CCL) has begun as part of a three-month plan to strengthen tunnels between Mountbatten, Dakota and Paya Lebar stations, and early reports show that station staff and supplementary shuttle buses have helped keep commuter crowds manageable during peak hours. 

The adjustment, which started on January 17 and will continue until April 19, requires trains to operate on a single platform at the affected stretch to allow for engineering work, leading to longer waits and increased crowd levels at certain interchange stations. 

On January 19, crowd management measures were visible at Serangoon MRT station during the morning rush. Staff were deployed throughout the concourse, guiding commuters to alternative routes and shuttle buses. Some directed travellers with loudhailers, while others handed out information leaflets and assisted with queries. 

Commuters heading to the Circle Line platform at Serangoon were also directed to cross a linkway to the opposite platform to reduce congestion. Train frequency toward Paya Lebar station was paced at short intervals so that crowds remained relatively well spaced. 

In addition to on-ground staff support, shuttle bus services were introduced to supplement rail operations and offer alternate routes for riders during the disruption period. Extra personnel — nearly 500 more than usual — have been assigned daily to manage crowd flow and ensure orderly travel. 

Some commuters reported slightly longer travel times, often around 15 to 20 minutes more than usual, but acknowledged that the crowd management efforts helped keep movements smooth. With continued monitoring and operational adjustments, transport officials say they aim to maintain safety and service reliability throughout the planned works.