Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Transport
a. whether LTA has conducted any studies or assessments for the projected level of noise from the train tracks for the Jurong Region Line (JRL); and
b. whether the combined noise levels from the JRL, North-South Line and LRT Lines in Choa Chu Kang Central are expected to be within the recommended limits set by NEA for a residential area.
Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:
1. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has conducted a study to estimate noise levels and assess the impact on residents when the Jurong Region Line (JRL) is operational. The study identified areas along the JRL corridor where noise mitigation measures, such as noise barriers, need to be installed to ensure noise levels remain within the National Environment Agency (NEA)’s limits. The new JRL trains will also be equipped with noise-dampening wheels to mitigate noise levels.
2. For Choa Chu Kang Central, LTA’s study took into account existing ambient noise levels, including from the North-South Line and Bukit Panjang Light Rail Transit. With the installation of noise barriers along the JRL, the projected noise levels at residential blocks in Choa Chu Kang Central near the JRL tracks are expected to be within NEA’s noise limits.