Jurong Region Line (JRL) | Map, Stations & Completion
The Jurong Region Line (JRL) is Singapore’s seventh MRT line currently under construction, designed to expand rail connectivity in the western regions of the island. Unlike existing lines that focus on radial connections to the city centre, the JRL is primarily a regional line linking residential towns, key activity nodes, educational institutions like Nanyang Technological University (NTU), industrial areas, and future growth districts such as Tengah and Jurong Innovation District.
Around 30 km long with 24 planned stations, the JRL comprises multiple branches that form an H-shaped network extending to Choa Chu Kang in the north, Pandan Reservoir in the east, Jurong Pier in the south, and Peng Kang Hill in the west. The line will significantly improve access to residential services at HDB Jurong West Branch.
It will be Singapore’s first fully elevated MRT line with smaller train carriages designed for tighter turns and built-up environments, and will provide seamless connections to existing MRT lines at key interchanges such as Choa Chu Kang, Boon Lay, and Jurong East.
The Jurong Region Line was formally introduced in Singapore’s rail plans to address long-standing transport gaps in the western region, particularly in new and future developments that lacked direct MRT access. Before its current iteration, the concept of a line serving Jurong was proposed as early as the 2000s, but it was later refined and confirmed in the 2013 Land Transport Master Plan as an MRT line rather than Light Rail Transit (LRT) to better support urban growth and commuter demand.
On 9 May 2018, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced the finalized alignment with a network of 24 stations serving Choa Chu Kang, Jurong West, Jurong East, Pandan Reservoir, NTU and more. The JRL is planned in three major phases, West, East, and Southern/Western extensions, originally scheduled to open between 2026 and 2028. However, construction delays due to COVID-19 have shifted the opening timeline, and the line is now expected to open progressively from 2027 to 2029.
Industrial connectivity near Jurong Penjuru worker dormitories will be enhanced. In addition to improving commuter connectivity within Jurong and neighbouring towns, the JRL supports Singapore’s long-term developmental plans, including new housing estates, business districts, and education hubs, reducing travel times and easing load on existing MRT lines.
Initial Phases
The JRL alignment was finalized on 9 May 2018, with 24 stations laid out across multiple branches, a design that drew mixed public reactions due to its complex structure but was recognised as a necessary compromise to serve diverse localities in the west efficiently.
The line is divided into three main phases:
- Phase 1 — JRL West: Connects Choa Chu Kang to Bahar Junction with branches to Tawas and Boon Lay, serving ten stations.
- Phase 2 — JRL East: Branches from Tengah to Pandan Reservoir, adding seven stations.
- Phase 3 — Southern/Western Extensions: Extends into Jurong Pier and Peng Kang Hill via NTU with another seven stations, completing the core network.
- Construction commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony on 13 January 2023, marking the start of major works after land acquisition phases including the relocation and merger of Pioneer Primary School to allow viaduct construction through its former site.
Phase 1 vs Future Phases
Phase 1 (West) connects Choa Chu Kang to Bahar Junction and branches to Tawas and Boon Lay.
Phase 2 (East) runs from Tengah to Pandan Reservoir via Jurong East.
Phase 3 extends service toward NTU (Peng Kang Hill) and Jurong Pier.
These phases will open progressively from 2027 to 2029 due to COVID-related delays. Later, the West Coast Extension will add new links in the late 2030s and early 2040s.
Notable Stations: Bahar, Brickland, Bukit Batok West
The Jurong Region Line features several notable stations that strengthen connectivity across the west. Retail spots like POPULAR Jurong East bookstore will become more convenient to reach. Bahar Junction acts as the operational heart of the network where different branches diverge, enabling smooth transfers within the line. Brickland serves residential neighbourhoods in Choa Chu Kang that previously had limited MRT access, reducing reliance on buses. Bukit Batok West enhances links for communities located between Bukit Batok and the growing Tengah town. Peng Kang Hill is strategically located to support NTU students and staff with more direct public transport access. Jurong Pier caters to the industrial workforce, improving daily commuting to the Jurong industrial estate. Finally, Jurong East stands out as a major interchange and commercial hub, connecting commuters to existing MRT lines, shopping centres, and business districts.
Jurong Region Line (JRL)
Construction & Timeline:
- Alignment and stations announced: May 2018.
- Station and depot contracts awarded: 2019–2022.
- Groundbreaking ceremony: January 2023.
- Viaduct works across former Pioneer Primary School site; Tengah Depot construction underway.
- Phase 1 expected ~2027; full network ready by 2029.
- LTA oversees project, awarding contracts to multiple engineering firms; Tengah Depot manages operations.
Train & Operations:
- 3-car trains designed for elevated tracks and tight curves, high frequency during peak hours.
- Operated by Singapore One Rail (SOR), a joint venture of SBS Transit (75.01%) and RATP Dev (24.99%).
- Daily service from early morning to midnight, integrated with MRT, LRT, and bus networks.
Jurong Region Line Map & Stations
The Jurong Region Line (JRL) forms an H-shaped elevated network across western Singapore, linking Choa Chu Kang, Tengah, Jurong West, NTU, Jurong Pier, and Pandan Reservoir.
It is designed as a regional connector, feeding into major MRT lines rather than heading into the city centre.
Key interchanges include Choa Chu Kang (NSL), Boon Lay (EWL), and Jurong East (NSL/EWL).
The alignment serves new estates like Tengah, education hubs like NTU, and industrial zones near Jurong Pier.
When complete, the JRL will significantly shorten travel times within the west and reduce reliance on buses.
Full Line Map
The JRL map reveals a distinctive H-shape with four main arms stretching across the west. From Choa Chu Kang, the line travels southwest toward Tengah before splitting into eastern and western branches. One branch heads southeast to Pandan Reservoir via Jurong East, while the western side divides toward Jurong Pier and Peng Kang Hill (serving NTU). This layout allows the line to cover residential, industrial, and educational districts without forcing all trains onto a single trunk route. The map also highlights key interchange points with existing MRT lines, helping commuters transfer efficiently.
Connectivity with Existing MRT Lines
The JRL is designed to feed into Singapore’s major MRT arteries. At Choa Chu Kang, commuters can transfer to the North–South Line for access to Woodlands, Bishan, and the city. At Boon Lay and Jurong East, transfers to the East–West Line allow direct travel toward the CBD, Clementi, and Changi. Jurong East also links again to the North–South Line, giving dual connectivity. Future plans under the West Coast Extension will connect the JRL to the Cross Island Line and Circle Line at West Coast and Kent Ridge respectively, making the JRL a powerful feeder and distributor across the western half of Singapore.
Station Locations and Key Landmarks
JRL stations are carefully positioned near housing estates, schools, and workplaces. Tengah stations serve the new eco-town. Bahar Junction acts as a critical split between branches. Boon Lay connects commuters to Jurong Point and the EWL. The Peng Kang Hill branch directly serves Nanyang Technological University, benefiting thousands of students daily. Southern stations like Tukang and Jurong Hill support industrial workers near Jurong Port. On the eastern side, Bukit Batok West and Jurong East serve dense residential and commercial zones. This station placement reflects the line’s purpose: not city travel, but local and regional mobility.
Safety & Incidents
The Jurong Region Line (JRL) has maintained a strong safety record throughout its construction phase, with no major accidents or incidents reported to date. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) places safety at the forefront of both construction and operational planning, ensuring that all works comply with strict regulatory standards. Comprehensive safety protocols have been implemented across the project, including the installation of elevated platform screen doors at all stations to prevent accidental falls onto tracks. CCTV monitoring and emergency communication points are deployed throughout stations and trains to enhance passenger security and allow rapid response in case of emergencies.
During construction, LTA conducts continuous site inspections and engineering assessments to ensure structural integrity and adherence to safety standards. Contractors are required to follow detailed risk management and occupational safety plans, with regular audits to identify and mitigate potential hazards. Once operational, these safety measures extend to daily train services, where platform and train staff are trained in emergency procedures, including evacuation drills and first aid response. By combining advanced technology, rigorous monitoring, and proactive planning, the JRL project aims to provide a secure and reliable transit experience for commuters while minimizing risks during construction and future operation.
Travel Tips for Commuters
The Jurong Region Line (JRL) offers efficient connectivity to key stations, making travel across western Singapore faster and more convenient. Commuters can use the JRL to reach major hubs such as Jurong East, Boon Lay, and Choa Chu Kang, where transfers to other MRT lines are readily available, enabling smooth journeys to other parts of the island.
To enjoy a more comfortable commute, passengers are advised to avoid peak hours—typically 7–9 AM and 5–7 PM—especially near NTU and industrial areas where ridership is high. Traveling during off-peak periods allows for less crowded trains and a more relaxed experience.
The JRL is well integrated with Singapore’s broader public transport network. Feeder buses connect nearby residential and industrial zones to stations, while LRT links at Choa Chu Kang and Bukit Panjang provide seamless transfers for last-mile travel. This integration ensures commuters have multiple options to plan efficient, flexible journeys across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Jurong Region Line?
A new MRT line serving western Singapore with 24 stations.
When will it be completed?
Between 2027 and 2029 in phases.
How many stations are there?
24 initially, more with the extension.
Which stations connect to other MRT lines?
Choa Chu Kang, Boon Lay, Jurong East.
How do I check the JRL map?
Via LTA announcements and MRT system maps.
Are there construction impacts?
Yes, some road diversions and site works near Tengah, Jurong West, and NTU.
Conclusion
The Jurong Region Line represents a major step forward in strengthening rail connectivity across western Singapore. Designed as a regional feeder rather than a city-bound line, it links homes, schools, workplaces, and future growth areas like Tengah and the Jurong Innovation District with existing MRT lines at key interchanges. Its distinctive H-shaped alignment, elevated design, and smaller trains reflect practical engineering choices made to navigate dense estates while maximising coverage.
When completed in phases from 2027 to 2029, the JRL will significantly reduce travel times, ease pressure on buses, and offer residents and students especially those around NTU and Jurong West—more convenient daily commutes. With future plans to extend the line toward West Coast and Kent Ridge, the JRL is also part of Singapore’s long-term rail vision. Ultimately, the line is not just about new stations, but about creating a more connected, resilient, and accessible west for decades to come.
