24 July 2006 (2nd update at 9.30 pm) – Train service on North East Line (NEL) will be fully operational tomorrow morning.

At least 9,600 commuters have taken the free train and bus shuttle services which were introduced to minimise disruption caused by the partial stoppage of NEL services.

The free train shuttle, which operates between HarbourFront and Dhoby Ghaut Stations, was introduced at about 7.30 pm. Commuters who enter or leave the NEL from HabourFront, Outram Park, Chinatown and Clarke Quay Stations ride for free on the NEL, regardless of where they disembark along NEL. The average headway expected on this free train shuttle is about 20 minutes.

This free train shuttle is over and above the free bus shuttle services deployed earlier that shuttled between HarbourFront and Dhoby Ghaut Stations stopping at Outram Park, Chinatown and Clarke Quay Stations. About 35 buses were deployed to provide the necessary connection for passengers. The frequency for the bus shuttle service is currently about 5-8 minutes.

The bus and train shuttle services have been introduced to minimise inconvenience to SBS Transit NEL customers.

Normal train operations are still running between Dhoby Ghaut and Punggol Stations with a frequency of six and a half minutes.

The stoppage of NEL services between Harbourfront and Dhoby Ghaut Stations occurred at 12.57pm today after one of our southbound trains lost traction power as it was leaving Outram Station.

At 1.13pm, NEL officers activated the detrainment process. In all, about 100 passengers were affected. None were injured.

Fifty SBS Transit Goodwill Ambassadors were deployed to the affected stations to help with traffic control. Signboards and posters announcing the disruption of services were also put up at all affected stations. Regular audio announcements were made aired to inform passengers of the disruption to services.

For the 100 passengers affected by the stalled train, they can seek a refund of their train fare at any NEL Passenger Service Counter.

Members of the public may call our Customer Relations Centre at 1800 287 2727 or 6383 7214 for further information.

We wish to apologise for any inconvenience caused.