To reply you point for point:
DTL2 has what you termed as Slidings, but it is more of a middle
track. As for where it is, find out when DTL2 is in
operation.
Based on the 1996 white paper, there would not be a circle line
as we know it today. You get my meaning? Plans change,
and they change to suit the particular conditions as we know of at
that point in time.
Whether ERL will link to CCL at Paya Lebar at the current time,
is no. But your statement that "maybe not implemented at all
due to soft soil only, and thats all" is factually incorrect.
We can build MCE across reclaimed land, tunnel through Nicoll
Highway vicinity and do bored piling works right in the middle of
the sea channel / river / canal. We can also cut a road
through granite rocks. Who says we cannot build an extension
if we want to? It can be due to the time and cost
factor that is prohibiting the construction, plus there is no value
added if it is constructed now. Maybe 10 to 20 years down the
road, there will be a modification project to connect CCL to
ERL? We won't know for sure. Even if there are plans,
you and I won't know of it until it is annonuced by the Transport
Minister.
Thus, all I can say is, don't keep harping on this, as you may
not even be around when and if they really decide to that.
I believe that the plans had changed, but keeping a middle track
is for extension for future use. I never say the current use of
middle track in PYL is for an extension line, but as a provision
for such extension if there is such a need. For now, I never said
that it is incorrect for SWT / overnight parking use (Which is
quite obvious usage for the middle track for now).
Notice that the left to DBG platform has a wide land space? It
can be used to office development and i believe, if they feel that
there is a need to "JEMP" it due to such extension had finally
materialized (IF), it is technically feasible.