If you’ve taken a ride on a specific North East Line train this week and noticed how intricately decked the interior of the cabins are in Deepavali designs and colours, you are not alone.

Word of the first-ever Deepavali-themed train in Singapore, launched last Saturday, was picked up by many news publications in India even if it did not receive as much fanfare in the local media.

Publications such as the India Times, The Indian Express and News18.com reported on the unique set-up of this year’s initiative.

The cabins of the trains are decorated with colourful pictures of diyas (oil filled lamps) and garlands. As seen in the photos uploaded on LTA’s Facebook post, images of lotus, peacock, and jewellery associated with the festival are also spotted in the cabins and both the NEL and Downtown Line platforms at Little India Station.

And with the Festival of Lights, observed by Hindus, just 10 days away, the initiative by the Land Transport Authority has only served to add to the celebratory mood.

India Times said: “This train looks as if it is hosting a mini-festival inside it – with colourful walls and floor.

And how did the Singapore public respond to the decorative trains? Well, several Facebook users left positive comments on LTA’s post of the initiative, commending the effort as a good way to promote multiracial and cultural relations.

In a forum letter to The Straits Times, reader Mr Kumar Pillay Thangavalu said: “Kudos to the Land Transport Authority for the Deepavali decor on MRT trains…I am sure we will see more of such decorated trains for other festivals too, to reflect and enhance the rich multicultural society we have.”

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Photo Gallery

1st Deepavali-themed train launched on NEL

Source:

Land Transport Authority

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Besides the decorations at Little India Station and on the trains, Deepavali-themed lights have been put up on the roads along Little India, with lotuses and peacocks making up the top lights.

It is reported that LTA had collaborated with Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association for the project. According to LTA, the specially-themed train will run till mid-November.

stephluo@sph.com.sg