Singapore's commitment to advancing its public transportation infrastructure takes another significant stride as the Thomson-East Coast Line Stage 4 (TEL4) is set to commence passenger services on June 23, 2024. This announcement was made during the Ministry of Transport's Committee of Supply debate, emphasizing the government's dedication to enhancing accessibility and connectivity for commuters.

Linking East Coast Region with Thomson-East Coast Line

The TEL4, spanning 10.8km, encompasses seven strategically located stations: Tanjong Rhu, Katong Park, Tanjong Katong, Marine Parade, Marine Terrace, Siglap, and Bayshore. This extension aims to improve accessibility for commuters in the East Coast region, offering alternative travel options and reducing travel times significantly.

Travel Time Savings and Improved Connectivity

Commuters along the East Coast area can anticipate travel time savings of up to 50 percent when utilizing the TEL. For example, a resident from Marine Parade commuting to Shenton Way will experience a journey time of just 20 minutes via TEL, compared to the current 40 minutes by bus and train. This substantial reduction in travel time is set to enhance the overall commuting experience for residents and workers alike.

Additionally, TEL4 extends the reach of the rail network, providing better access to work and recreational options along the East Coast. With the opening of TEL4, approximately 235,000 households will be within a 10-minute walk from an existing TEL station, fostering greater connectivity and convenience.

Preview and Free Travel Event

To familiarize commuters with the new TEL4 stations, a special preview and free travel event will be held on June 21, 2024, from 10 am to 9 pm. This event not only offers a glimpse of the state-of-the-art facilities but also provides an opportunity for residents to experience the enhanced connectivity firsthand. A series of activities will be organized to mark the opening, with more details available on the Land Transport Authority's (LTA) social media pages.

Future Developments: TEL5, DTLe, and East Coast Integrated Depot

Looking ahead, residents in the east of Singapore can anticipate further improvements to their commuting experience. Four additional stations – Bedok South, Sungei Bedok interchange, and Xilin – are slated to open in 2026, coinciding with the completion of TEL5 and the Downtown Line extension (DTLe) projects. The East Coast Integrated Depot, featuring connecting tunnels to both TEL and DTL, along with viaducts from the East-West Line, is also set to open in 2026. These developments underscore Singapore's commitment to creating a comprehensive and efficient public transportation network for its residents.

In conclusion, the opening of Thomson-East Coast Line Stage 4 is a pivotal moment in Singapore's ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure. With enhanced connectivity, reduced travel times, and future expansions in the pipeline, residents and commuters in the East Coast region can look forward to a more seamless and efficient transportation experience.

Property Prices Near Thomson-East Coast Line

Properties, both landed and condominiums, situated within a ten-minute walking distance from the TEL MRT stations are poised to gain advantages from the ease of commuting to work or the city.

Nevertheless, most of the good news have been priced in. Property prices have appreciated significantly in recent years since the announcement from the Land Transport Authority, said Andy Chia JT, Propertyforsale Managing Director. 

Businesses face headwinds and uncertainties as global economic activity remains slow, he said. 

The layoff in the techology (IT) sector will persist this year and it will affect some Singaporeans' ability to service their mortgage loans if they cannot find a tenant, Chia said.