Singapore’s North-South Corridor faces two‑year delay; LTA says cost impact known only after project ends

Singapore’s Land Transport Authority said today that the additional cost arising from the two‑year delay to the North-South Corridor will only be known after the project is completed. — TODAY file pic

By Malay Mail

First Published: Friday, 18 Sep 2026 4:55 PM MYT

SINGAPORE, Sept 18 — The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said today that the additional cost arising from the two‑year delay to the North-South Corridor (NSC) will only be known after the project is completed.

CNA reported that LTA will assess whether any extra expenses should be borne by the contractor or the agency once the project wraps up.

“The final additional cost, including the allocation of costs between the parties, could only be ascertained upon the completion of the project,” a spokesman said.

The spokesman added that LTA is “not in a position to comment on project costs at this stage” as works remain ongoing.

The NSC is a 21‑kilometre integrated transport corridor designed to link Singapore’s northern towns to the city centre with dedicated bus lanes, cycling paths and pedestrian routes, and was originally expected to cost S$7.47 billion (RM23.8 billion).

LTA announced the delay yesterday, citing unexpectedly challenging ground conditions that have slowed progress and raised concerns among nearby businesses and residents.

The spokesman said tenderers receive available ground information during the bidding process to establish baseline site conditions and are expected to factor construction risks into their pricing.

“If the ground condition encountered during construction differs from the baseline information provided, the contractor can submit a claim for assessment,” the spokesman said.

LTA will “make an assessment and consider additional payment” if the claim is valid under contract provisions.

The spokesman said LTA’s priority is to complete the NSC “expediently without compromising safety”.

Businesses near construction sites told CNA they have seen falling earnings, reduced footfall and lower visibility following the revised timeline.

“LTA recognises that the revised timeline means businesses in affected areas will experience the construction impact for a longer period and appreciates their continued patience and understanding,” the spokesman said.

LTA said surface‑level disruptions should progressively ease from next year as more activities move underground.

Major underground structural works are expected to be completed from 2028, allowing affected areas to be reinstated once they are no longer required for construction.

Ahead of the full opening of the NSC, LTA said it will continue returning affected areas to public use where safe and practicable.

Businesses and residents can expect improvements such as the removal of hoardings, reinstated roads and footpaths, and restored pedestrian facilities and amenities where feasible.