{
  "id": 11536438,
  "title": "Complex works, tough terrain: Building Jurong Region Line no easy task",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/02/complex-works-tough-terrain-building-jurong-region-line-no-easy-task",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-02T21:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Straits Times",
    "slug": "straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/complex-works-tough-terrain-building-jurong-region-line-no-easy-task1"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Singapore's Jurong Region Line (JRL) is poised to become the country's seventh Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) line, beginning operations in approximately two years. However, constructing the 24km above-ground line has presented unique challenges. The first MRT line built entirely above ground, the JRL will feature 25 stations and three interchanges, serving areas such as Choa Chu Kang, Boon Lay, and Jurong East. Stage 1 is already 80% complete, with structural works at all 10 stations and viaducts finished.\n\nThe decision to build an above-ground line has led to significant construction noise and dust, causing disturbances for nearby residents. Despite the inconveniences, some residents acknowledge the necessity of the project, expressing patience and understanding. The JRL will provide improved transport links to residents in Choa Chu Kang, Boon Lay, and Tengah, while enhancing access to key areas like the Jurong Innovation District, Jurong Lake District, and Nanyang Technological University.\n\nBuilding the JRL's viaducts was particularly challenging due to the need to work during nighttime hours when traffic is light and roads can be closed. In some cases, conventional lifting methods were not feasible, requiring engineers to design innovative solutions. For example, segments near the Jurong East Flyover were lifted and slid into position using a special lifting frame, due to the presence of an existing open canal that prevented a vertical lift. At the AYE crossing, a 7.4m-wide canal further complicated the process, necessitating the construction of a special lifting frame to accommodate the massive concrete segments weighing up to 120 tonnes each.",
  "summary": "The JRL is Singapore's first fully elevated MRT line. Find out how it was built in four-hour windows.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}