SINGAPORE: Singapore's popular Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) launched its first ever Diwali-themed train last week, in light of the Diwali spirit. Releasing an official statement, the Land Transport Authority said, "It is an effort to celebrate the Festival of Lights in a whole new illuminating way this year. We have launched our first Deepavali themed train and now people can experience part of the stunning decorations at Little India right inside the MRT."
Launched by the Minister for Transport, Khaw Boon Wan, the train will run on the North East Line till mid-November. Singapore-based NRI Kamal Khanna said, "Little India is a small hub here where most of the shopa and establishments are owned by Singaporeans who are Indians by origin. Their ancestors migrated here decades ago. The Little India has two metro rail stations- North Eastern Line (NEL) and Downtown Line, and both have been beautifully decorated by the LTA to celebrate Deepawali."
Inspired from India culture, the interior of the automobile flaunts elements like intricately designed Indian jewellery, and the lotus and peacock-for good luck. Not just the train, even stations fashion Diwali decorations. The Little India area is adorned with massive Diwali-themed lights all up on the roads, lotuses, and peacocks and ornate columns of diyas. The government has however issued a complete ban on crackers. "There is a strict enforcement of the ban and we cannot burst crackers here. We appreciate this step to celebrate eco-friendly Diwali," Khanna said.
