Passenger Feedback on High Noise Levels Inside Thomson-East Coast Line Train Cabins and Improving Current Noise Reduction Measures

Written Reply to Parliamentary Question

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Transport

a.          whether LTA and the train operators have received recent feedback on high noise levels inside Thomson East Coast Line train cabins along specific stretches while trains are moving;

b.          what noise measurements have been recorded for these stretches relative to the 85dB threshold; and

c.           what further measures are being taken to reduce such noise.

Reply by Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow

1.          Our MRT system is designed to maintain average noise levels within the train cabin to below 85 dB. This is aligned with international practices and occupational safety limits. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has received feedback about specific stretches along the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) where noise levels in the train cabin will momentarily exceed 85 dB as the train traverses tight curves.

2.          LTA has moderated train speeds along these tight curves and increased frequency of rail maintenance works to reduce vibration and noise. As previously announced, LTA has been trialling the use of tuned mass dampers at select stretches to further reduce noise. The trials have yielded positive results, and LTA will progressively extend the use of tuned mass dampers to other stretches of the line.