On 25 January 2019, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced that Defu station would be part of the proposed Cross Island line (CRL).

[1][2][3] However, the restrictions imposed on construction works due to the COVID-19 pandemic led to delays and the CRL1 completion date was pushed by one year to 2030.

As part of the contract, a facility building will be constructed to fulfil the electrical and mechanical requirements for the line.

Tunnelling through abrasive alluvium soil, the boring machine has to be closely monitored for wear and tear.

[5][6][7] The contract for the design and construction of Defu Station and associated tunnels was awarded to a joint venture between Gamuda Berhad Singapore Branch and Wai Fong Construction Pte Ltd on 22 February 2022 for S$467 million (US$342.3 million).