Why Singapore’s North-South Corridor is delayed—and when its extra costs will be known

Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) says unexpectedly challenging ground conditions have made construction of the North-South Corridor more complex and slower than planned. Both the viaduct and tunnel are now expected to open in phases about two years later than previously announced. The financial impact remains unresolved. 42123

Why has the opening been delayed?

The viaduct from Admiralty Road West to Lentor Avenue is now expected to open in phases from 2029, rather than 2027. The tunnel from Lentor Avenue to East Coast Parkway is expected to open in phases from 2031, rather than 2029. These are dates for the start of phased openings, not promises that every section will open at once. 421

Ground conditions have varied along the route. Reports describe hard or fractured rock, boulders and groundwater around Novena and Thomson, requiring more difficult excavation and changes to construction methods. On the viaduct section, LTA says utility diversions and adverse ground conditions slowed foundation work at Gambas Avenue and Woodlands Avenue 8; the accumulated delays then affected later structural work. Construction also has to proceed near existing roads, utilities and operating MRT infrastructure. 5182034

When will the extra cost—and who pays it—be known?

LTA says the final additional cost of the delay, including its allocation between the authority and contractors, can be determined only after the project is completed. The corridor has previously been described as a S$7.47 billion project, but LTA has not established a final revised total or said how much of any additional cost it will bear. 2328

Claims arising from ground conditions that differ from expectations must be assessed against the relevant contract terms and what was actually encountered. Difficult ground does not, by itself, establish who pays a particular claim; the available information does not resolve any individual contractor’s claim. 23

What changes sooner for residents and businesses?

The extended schedule prolongs uncertainty for people living or trading near construction sites. Reports describe concerns about noise, access and customer traffic. LTA expects disruptive surface activity to ease from 2027 as work shifts and progresses, while major underground works are expected to finish progressively from 2028. Roads, footpaths and adjacent areas occupied by construction are to be reinstated in stages from 2028. Those improvements should not be confused with the later viaduct and tunnel opening dates. 42225323335

LTA says it will continue working to complete the corridor as promptly as possible without compromising safety, while seeking to minimise disruption during the remaining works. 32534