THE number of people intruding into the train track area of above-ground MRT stations has doubled from an average of 16 cases in 2004 and 2005, to 30 in 2006 and 31 last year. So, from next year, platform screen doors will be installed at three above-ground train stations at Yishun, Jurong East and Pasir Ris in a pilot scheme to curb this disturbing trend and enhance passenger safety. And...

* Radical plan for parallel rail lines * Extensions to Tuas, Marina South * Earlier opening of two stations THE problem is a familiar one: The passenger squeeze in MRT trains. The solution is radical — at least in the Singaporean context: Build two new lines that run parallel to the present routes at a cost of $20 billion. One will run from Marina Bay and end at Woodlands, very...

Output, property results show weak global demand MANUFACTURING and property data released yesterday provided further indication that weak global demand is hurting the Singapore economy. While economists say they are cautiously optimistic, expecting the economy to continue to expand, some big research houses have started to scale down their economic forecasts for this year. “The...

Try for flats in newer towns for a higher chance of success Letter from Ignatius Lourdesamy Acting Deputy Director (Marketing and Projects) for Director (Estate Administration and Property) Housing and Development Board (HDB) I REFER to the letter from Lim Jie Yi, “A young S’porean’s housing dilemma” (Jan 5). Ms Lim applied for a 4-room flat under HDB’s Build-to-Order (BTO) exercise for Telok...

latform screen doors will be installed at all above-ground MRT stations by 2012, more sheltered linkways and barrier-free access features will also be available to make it more convenient for commuters to get to the train stations, Transport Minister Raymond Lim announced Friday. Platform screen doors will be installed at all above-ground stations by 2012 Commuter Mohamad Fairoz and his family are all...

Residents in Kim Seng, Thomson, Sin Ming and Kebun Baru have reason to celebrate - especially with the unveiling of plans for the new Thomson MRT line, which will be ready in 2018. While most are happy about the new development, there are some concerns about costs and the long wait for the new line. One resident said, "I think it'll be good for the citizens around here. You can get to places around much...

Property prices are expected to rise around ten to 15 per cent around the 100 new MRT stations to be built, analysts said. The government announced Friday that it would pump S$20 billion to double the rail network by 2020. Properties are going to be hot around the new 100 stations, with malls and public facilities expected to draw crowds to the stations. Property consultants are forecasting price...

In a massive new investment, the government will pump in another S$20 billion on new rail lines and extensions islandwide, Transport Minister Raymond Lim announced Friday. This is over and above the S$20 billion the government has already committed for the on-going Boon Lay extension, the Circle Line and the Downtown Line. Mr Lim said the new and extended lines will go to places as diverse as Marine...

Property developer Wing Tai has reported a 25 percent rise in half-time earnings to S$105 million. Draycott8 This is due mainly to higher contributions from the sale of its condominium projects. Revenue fell 52 percent to S$211 million. In the second quarter, earnings fell 19 percent to S$44 million, following a 59 percent fall in the topline figure to S$111 million. Wing Tai did not give a guidance...

The Ascott Group has reported an 8 percent increase in full-year earnings, in line with market forecasts. Net profit came in at S$177.3 million. The jump was due to an increase in rental rates as well as higher portfolio gains from asset divestment and revaluation. The owner-cum-operator of serviced residences said it is looking to further grow its portfolio in the next two years. The Ascott Group now...