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North-South Corridor delay: A decade of inconveniences but potential long-term benefits

Published July 5, 2026 at 7:31 PM UTC

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The North-South Corridor (NSC) is Singapore's first integrated transport corridor, designed to enhance connectivity from the northern region to the city center. Spanning 21.5 kilometers, the NSC aims to serve towns such as Sembawang, Yishun, Ang Mo Kio, Toa Payoh, Novena, and Rochor. The project was initially conceived as the North South Expressway (NSE) but was reimagined in 2016 to include features that promote a Walk-Cycle-Ride (WCR) experience. This transformation led to the incorporation of dedicated bus lanes, cycling paths, and pedestrian-friendly spaces along the corridor. The NSC is expected to be completed in phases, with the viaduct portion from Admiralty Road West to Lentor Avenue slated for completion in 2027, and the road tunnel segment from Lentor Avenue to East Coast Parkway (ECP) in 2029. The delay in the tunnel segment, announced in July 2023, was attributed to challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and difficult soil conditions. Residents living along the NSC construction route have faced significant disruptions, including noise, dust, vibrations, and traffic diversions. These inconveniences have raised questions about whether the decade-long wait will be worth the sacrifice. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has acknowledged these challenges and stated that noise levels should decrease as the most intensive underground work has been completed. When fully operational, the NSC is projected to reduce travel time from northern Singapore to the city center by up to 30 minutes, potentially alleviating congestion on existing routes and improving overall commuting efficiency. The corridor is also expected to support new developments along its path, contributing to economic growth and urban development. In summary, while the North-South Corridor has caused a decade of inconveniences for residents and commuters, its completion promises significant long-term benefits, including enhanced connectivity, reduced travel times, and economic development.