Mass Rapid Transit

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is a general synonym for public transportation, often equated to metro systems.

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is the name of Singapore's metro system. The first section of the MRT, from Yio Chu Kang to Toa Payoh, was opened in 1987. The lines are constructed by the Land Transit Authority, with operating concessions currently handed to SMRT Corporation and SBS Transit.

Table of contents

1 Lines
2 Fares
3 External Links

Lines

There are currently three lines in operation:

North-South Line, from Marina Bay to Jurong East, 44.0 km, 25 stations, operated by SMRT
East-West Line, from Boon Lay to Pasir Ris with an additional branch to Changi Airport, 45.4 km, 29 stations, operated by SMRT
North-East Line, from Harbourfront to Punggol, 20 km, 14 stations, operated by SBS Transit

When opened in 2003, the North-East Line was the world's first fully automated heavy rail line.

The Circle Line, from Dhoby Ghaut to Harbourfront, is currently under construction. The first section is scheduled to open in 2006, with the full line in operation by 2010.

The heavy MRT lines are complemented by the Bukit Panjang, Sengkang and Punggol light rail (LRT) systems.

Fares

Single fares range from S$0.60 to a maximum of S$1.70. Single trip tickets require a refundable S$1 deposit.

Most passengers use a rechargable contactless smart card called EZ-Link, which is quite similar to Hong Kong's Octopus card. The card is tapped on the ticket gates on entry and exit, and the correct fare is automatically deducted from the card on exit.