East-West Line Train Fault and Delays - December 2, 2025

Commuters on the East-West Line (EWL) experienced significantly slower train movements this evening (December 2), with multiple user reports indicating extended stops at stations and slower-than-usual service across several stretches of the line. The disruptions began around 8:15 PM and continued for approximately two hours before service stabilized at 10:00 PM.

What Commuters Reported

Starting around 8:15 PM this evening, passengers began reporting unusual delays across the East-West Line. Multiple reports were submitted within minutes of each other, indicating a widespread service slowdown rather than an isolated incident:

• Westbound from Outram Park: One commuter boarding at Outram Park towards Tuas Link reported that trains were stopping for several minutes at each station—significantly longer than the typical 2-minute intervals between stations during normal operations.
• Between Bugis and Paya Lebar: A potential delay was reported affecting the stretch between Bugis and Paya Lebar stations, with commuters experiencing longer waiting times.
• General slow movement: Multiple passengers noted that trains were "moving slowly and stopping for long periods" at stations along the line.

What made these reports particularly notable was that no official service delay advisory was displayed on station boards or digital platforms at the time commuters were experiencing these issues, leading to confusion about whether the extended travel times were part of normal operations.

Train Fault at Lavender Station

Adding to the evening's disruptions, commuters at Lavender MRT station reported a complete halt of westbound services. Su Hui Bok, a passenger at the station, shared on Facebook:

"Train fault at EW line. Currently at Lavender mrt and no trains going to the west. Why wasnt this announced?"

This report highlighted a more serious disruption at Lavender station, where westbound train services appeared to have stopped entirely—a significant escalation from the slow-moving trains reported elsewhere on the line. The lack of announcements about the service disruption was a common complaint among affected commuters.

Impact on Evening Commute

The timing of these delays—during the evening period from 8:15 PM to 10:00 PM—affected commuters wrapping up their evening activities or heading home after dinner. While not technically within the traditional evening rush hour (which typically ends around 8 PM), this period still sees significant ridership across the East-West Line.

The westbound direction towards Tuas Link was particularly affected, with commuters reporting the slowdown across multiple stations from Outram Park onwards, and a complete service stoppage at Lavender station. The eastbound direction between Bugis and Paya Lebar also saw reports of potential delays.

Service Restoration

By 10:00 PM, service on the East-West Line had stabilized and normal train frequencies resumed. The approximately two-hour disruption affected thousands of commuters during the evening period, though operations have since returned to normal.

Current Station Closures

It's worth noting that the East-West Line is currently operating under service adjustments due to ongoing station closures at Simei and Tanah Merah MRT stations until December 8, 2025. These closures are for East Coast Depot connection works, with free shuttle bus services operating between affected stations.

However, the delays and train fault reported this evening were separate from these planned closures, as they affected different stretches of the line—particularly the western and central sections between Outram Park and Lavender.

Monitor Live Reports

Monitor live user reports on the East-West Line status page to stay updated on current conditions and see real-time feedback from fellow commuters.

What Causes Train Faults and Slow Movement?

Extended station stops, slower train speeds, and service stoppages can occur for several reasons, including:

• Signal checks: Precautionary inspections of signaling systems to ensure safe operations
• Train spacing adjustments: Operators may slow trains to maintain safe distances when dealing with service irregularities
• Platform crowding: Extended dwell times at stations if platforms are experiencing higher-than-usual passenger loads
• Track inspections: Brief track or equipment checks that require reduced speeds
• Power supply fluctuations: Minor electrical issues that require trains to proceed with caution
• Train technical faults: Mechanical or electrical issues with individual trains that may require them to be taken out of service

While these slowdowns and service interruptions are frustrating for commuters, they're often precautionary measures taken by train operators to prioritize passenger safety and prevent more serious disruptions.

Communication Gap

A recurring theme in this evening's reports was the lack of timely official announcements about the service disruptions. Several commuters expressed frustration that they were experiencing delays and service stoppages without any information displayed on station boards or official channels.

This communication gap highlights the value of community-driven reporting platforms like SG Train Status, where commuters can share real-time information with fellow passengers, often providing alerts before official announcements are made.

Stay Informed

For the latest updates on East-West Line service conditions, commuters can:

• Check the East-West Line real-time status page
• Monitor LTA's MyTransport.SG app for official service alerts
• Follow SMRT's official social media channels
• Submit reports on SG Train Status to help fellow commuters stay informed

The community-driven reporting on SG Train Status provides valuable real-time insights into service conditions, often alerting commuters to delays before official announcements are made.