The Government of Singapore has officially retired all first-generation Kawasaki Heavy Industries MRT trains, marking the end of nearly four decades of service since their debut on November 7, 1987. The final train made its last trip on September 26, 2025, completing the fleet transition on the North-South and East-West lines.
The move comes as part of the Land Transport Authority (LTA)’s ongoing fleet renewal program, replacing the ageing models with seventh-generation Alstom Movia R151 trains. These new trains, introduced in June 2023, feature improved passenger capacity, energy efficiency, and advanced diagnostics. As of mid-September 2025, 70 of 106 R151 trains have entered service, with the remainder expected by 2026.
Originally scheduled for withdrawal by end-2026, the first-generation fleet’s retirement was accelerated after a 2024 axle box failure led to one of Singapore’s most significant MRT disruptions, prompting LTA to fine SMRT SGD2.4 million.
In a sustainable twist, LTA and SMRT are upcycling parts from the decommissioned trains. Around 26 train cabins and over 800 seats have been donated to educational institutions, hospitals, and community spaces. Some carriages are being converted into pop-up accommodations and exhibition areas, while components like intercoms, handrails, and LED panels have been creatively repurposed for public amenities and safety installations.
