Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Progress of Noise Barrier Installations Along MRT Viaducts in Yio Chu Kang and Success of Noise Minimisation Efforts

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Transport whether he can provide an update on 

i.     the progress of noise barrier installations along MRT viaducts near the Nuovo condominium in Yio Chu Kang

Ii.    plans to conduct another round of noise level assessments at Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6 given that the previous studies are conducted about five years ago

Iii.   the effectiveness of ongoing maintenance efforts on ageing MRT tracks to minimize noise and

Iv.    further collaborative measures with relevant agencies to address noise concerns in residential areas where barrier installations may be challenging.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1.     Noise barriers are installed along stretches of Mass Rapid Transit system (MRT) viaducts where there are residential developments that are located close to the viaducts, and where noise levels exceed the National Environment Agency’s guidelines. In addition to the installation of noise barriers, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) also works with train manufacturers and operators to reduce noise at source. This includes fitting trains with noise-dampening wheels, using ballast and concrete sleepers on elevated tracks to better absorb vibration and noise, and servicing train wheels and tracks more frequently as needed.

2.     The MRT viaduct near Nuovo condominium has not been identified as a location for the installation of noise barriers, as the nearest residential developments are beyond the distance where noise barriers are typically required, including Nuovo condominium which is about 70 metres away from the viaduct.

3.     If the Member has specific feedback about noise, he can also reach out to LTA.