Cross-Platform Interchanges

• Dark Honour

  21 Jan 09, 03:25

  I was reading up somewhere on how HK MTR managed to convert some of its stations gradually to cross-platform interchanges as more lines were added, in order to facilitate better traffic. I noticed that Orchard is not included in any interchange which can mean horrible congestion during the public holidays. I was thinking one day if they could adjust one of the lines for cross-platform interchange for Orchard or Somerset. And since the Thomsom line may probably run parallel to the NorthSouth line, they could adjust for perhaps cross-platform interchange with Toa Payoh and Novena too. (elevated sections are definitely out of the question) What do you think? It may be expensive for the sake of faciliating better traffic. ^^
• NickL_C151

  21 Jan 09, 10:46

  You gotta know your locations well. If a line was constructed to pass through Somerset, Orchard, Novena and Toa Payoh, why do we need a new line for? Orchard Road area does not have space for another underground line. Contrary to popular believe, Orchard MRT is diagonal to Orchard Road, pointing towards Isetan Scotts. Think about it. How do you extend an already congested underground area?

  As for the converted stations, I believe you are refering to North Point and Lai King. Note that they are NOT located in the city centre. Space has actually been reserved at the side of the station as before they were interchange stations, North Point operated in stack platforms (like Bangkok's MRT and some of our future Downtown Line stations) and Lai King had space reserved above the station for a future realignment.

  Not as easy as it looks now huh.