The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has awarded the final civil contract for the Downtown Line 2 extension (DTL2e), which is for the design and construction of the tunnels between the existing Bukit Panjang station and the upcoming DE1 station on the DTL2e. It has been awarded to China Railway Tunnel Group Co. Ltd. (Singapore Branch) at a contract value of around $199 million.

2China Railway Tunnel Group Co. Ltd. (Singapore Branch) is a construction company specialising in tunnelling and infrastructure projects. The company is currently completing the construction of Prince Edward Station for Circle Line 6.

Engineering Highlights

3Under this contract, a set of twin bored tunnels, each approximately 1.8 kilometres in length, will be constructed beneath Woodlands Road and existing infrastructure such as the Kranji Expressway (KJE) flyover. Tunnel construction will be carried out within a limited workspace due to its proximity to the existing Bukit Panjang station. To minimise the impact on the existing railway structures as well as DTL commuters, LTA will plan and coordinate closely with relevant agencies and the DTL operator, SBS Transit, to carry out sensitive works during non-operating hours.

4LTA and the contractors will also implement real-time monitoring of ground stability and relevant safety measures to ensure the safe conduct of construction works, and to minimise the impact to nearby stakeholders and infrastructure. During the construction, LTA and its appointed contractor will provide regular updates to residents and stakeholders on the progress of the works.

5Construction works for the tunnels are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026, and passenger service for DTL2e is targeted to commence in 2035.

About the DTL2e 

6DTL2e comprises three stations, the first station (DE1) after Bukit Panjang station will be an underground station located along Sungei Kadut Avenue. The new terminus for the DTL will be an underground interchange station (DE2) connected to a new aboveground station (NS6) between Yew Tee and Kranji stations on the NSL. When completed, DTL2e will enhance rail connectivity in the north-western region, and will shorten travel times for commuters travelling to and from the north and north-western parts of Singapore. It will provide improved access to existing and new growth areas such as Yew Tee and the future Sungei Kadut Eco-District.