But I still think they will build Bugis and Little India
stations as they won't sacrifice connectivity in this case. After
all, they want to model our rail transport system after London's,
where it's everywhere.
Regarding land costs & constraints along Bukit Timah Rd, I have
the idea that the stations will be built on either side of the road
if possible, if not under the Bukit Timah Canal like Chinatown
station.
For example, if there is to be a Namly (working name) station
serving the NJC, HCJC, TCHS, NYGH and RGPS then it could well be
built right under the road nearer to TCHS with underpasses to the
other side since there is ample space for construction to take
place by using the school field of TCHS. And it is unlikely for new
buildings to come up over the field that could affect the
foundations & station box of the station.
If there is to be a Balmoral (working name) station outside ACS
(Barker), it could be built under the river since on both sides of
the road are built-up areas.
The major problem is if there is a Whitley (working name) station
where will it be built as the Whitley Rd/Bt Timah Rd area is too
constrained.
Another major problem is where would the depot be sited. A MRT
depot requires about 30 hectares of space.
I expect the BTL to terminate at Kranji (NSL) MRT Interchange
together with the future link to Malaysia, but Bukit Panjang
remains a high possibility.
