Jurong Regional Line

The Jurong Region Line (JRL) is Singapore’s upcoming seventh MRT line, aimed at improving connectivity within the Jurong area and its surrounding regions. It will serve as a key component in the urban transformation of Jurong, which is set to become the second Central Business District (CBD) of Singapore. The JRL is being developed by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to enhance accessibility to residential, industrial, and commercial hubs in the west, further supporting the growth and development of the area.

Key Features of the Jurong Region Line

1. Length and Phases
The JRL will span 24 kilometers and is designed to have 24 stations, with the line being constructed in three phases. The line will provide direct connections to key areas such as Jurong West, Jurong East, Tengah, Choa Chu Kang, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and the Jurong Innovation District (JID).

– Phase 1: Expected to be completed by 2027, this phase will cover the areas around Tengah, Choa Chu Kang, and parts of Jurong West.
– Phase 2: Slated for completion in 2028, this phase extends the line through Jurong West, providing connectivity to NTU and the Jurong Innovation District.
– Phase 3: Expected to be completed in 2029, this phase will cover Jurong East, linking it to the rest of the line and improving access to commercial and residential developments in the region.

2. Loop and Branch Structure
The JRL is designed as a “loop and branch” system, with branches extending to serve different parts of the Jurong region. This design allows for flexibility in travel routes and ensures that residents and commuters can easily access various parts of the region without needing to travel through central areas. The three branches will cover:
– Choa Chu Kang to Tengah and Jurong East.
– A direct route connecting Jurong East with the Jurong Industrial District.
– A branch line to NTU and Tengah.

This structure makes the JRL a highly efficient system, catering to the specific needs of residents, students, and workers in the Jurong area.

3. Improved Connectivity
The JRL will significantly reduce travel time for those living and working in the western part of Singapore. Currently, many commuters need to travel to the city center to access different parts of the western region. The JRL will change that by creating direct connections between key locations in Jurong, enhancing convenience and reducing congestion on other MRT lines, especially the East-West Line (EWL).

One of the most notable benefits is for NTU students and staff, as the JRL will directly connect the university to other parts of the region. Similarly, residents in Tengah and Jurong East will have greater access to educational, commercial, and recreational facilities without the need for long commutes.

4. Support for Jurong Transformation
The JRL is crucial to the broader transformation of Jurong into a second CBD. This area is set to be a vibrant, mixed-use precinct with new commercial developments, industrial parks, and residential neighborhoods. The JRL will link these growing hubs, making it easier for residents to commute to work, access education, and enjoy recreational facilities.

The line will also connect to the Jurong Innovation District (JID), a key hub for research and development in areas such as advanced manufacturing and robotics. The JID is expected to attract companies and talent, and the JRL will provide convenient access to this area, enhancing its appeal as a business destination.

5. Integration with Existing MRT Lines
The JRL will be integrated with Singapore’s existing MRT network, with interchange stations planned to connect the JRL to other major MRT lines. For example:
– Jurong East will connect the JRL with the North-South Line (NSL) and the East-West Line (EWL), making it a critical transport hub in the west.
– Choa Chu Kang will connect to the North-South Line, facilitating smoother transfers between lines and improving overall travel efficiency.

This integration allows residents in the western part of Singapore to access the entire MRT network seamlessly, improving connectivity not just within Jurong but across the city.

6. Technology and Design
The JRL will utilize automated train systems, which are part of Singapore’s broader goal of increasing efficiency and safety within its public transport system. The trains will be fully automated, similar to those on the Downtown Line and North East Line, ensuring smooth operations with reduced human error. The stations are also expected to be designed with modern architecture, prioritizing accessibility, sustainability, and energy efficiency.

7. Sustainability Focus
As part of Singapore’s push towards a greener and more sustainable future, the JRL will incorporate environmentally friendly features, such as energy-efficient train systems, solar panels at selected stations, and eco-friendly building designs. These initiatives align with Singapore’s broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable urban development.

Benefits of the Jurong Region Line

The JRL is set to bring numerous benefits to the western part of Singapore:
– Reduced travel time: Commuters will be able to travel directly between key locations within the Jurong region without needing to go through the city center, cutting down on travel times and improving convenience.
– Enhanced accessibility: The line will connect residential areas with commercial, industrial, and educational hubs, making daily commuting more efficient for students, workers, and residents.
– Support for future growth: The JRL is part of a larger plan to develop Jurong as a second CBD, supporting the economic and social growth of the area.
– Improved public transport options: The JRL will alleviate pressure on the existing MRT network, particularly the heavily used East-West Line, by providing alternative travel routes within the western region.

The Jurong Region Line (JRL) is a transformative development for Singapore’s west, particularly the Jurong region, which is set to become a key economic and residential hub. By providing better connectivity between residential neighborhoods, industrial areas, educational institutions, and commercial hubs, the JRL will make the region more accessible, fostering growth and improving quality of life for residents and workers. With its integration into the existing MRT network, emphasis on sustainability, and modern technological features, the JRL is an essential step in Singapore’s continued efforts to build a smarter, more connected city. Novo Place is close to two stations on the Jurong Regional Line, future residents of Novo Place are expected to enjoy seamless connectivity around the country.

Source: LTA