The Singapore Land Transport Authority has awarded contracts to design and construct two tunnels for the first phase of the 29km Cross Island Line, which will run east to west across the country.
The contract for the Defu tunnel is worth US$345m and also involves the construction of a station. This was awarded to a joint venture between Malaysian contractor Gamuda and Singaporean civil engineer Wai Fong Construction.
The second contract, valued at around $293m, covers the design and construction of Tampines North station and tunnels. It has been awarded to China Communications Construction Company.
Excavation works are expected to be challenging as the ground conditions comprise soft marine clay as well as a soil-like material comprising sandy and silty clay. Work will begin in the second quarter and a service is expected to begin in 2030.
The line is Singapore’s eighth metro line. It will serve developments in the eastern, north-eastern and western corridors, linking major hubs such as Jurong Lake District, Punggol Digital District and Changi region. About almost half its 12 stations will be interchanges with other rail lines, making it easier and more convenient for commuters to travel across the rail network.
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