Railway Noise Survey and Installation of Noise Barriers

Mr Alex Yam asked the Minister for Transport (a) what are the main findings of the railway noise survey that began in September 2011; (b) what are the sites slated for installation of noise barriers; and (c) whether areas like Yew Tee and Keat Hong, where tracks still suffer from loud track noise due to the noise tunnel effect, will be considered for installation of noise barriers.

The island-wide railway noise measurement study found stretches of MRT tracks close to residential areas where noise levels exceed NEA's guidelines of 67 decibels (dBA) averaged over an hour (Leq 1-hour). Noise levels near turnout sections of rail viaducts tend to be higher.

LTA will progressively install noise barriers at these hotspots. Due to the physical constraints in carrying out the works, the programme will be closely co-ordinated with other ongoing MRT renewal works, such as sleeper replacement.

The first phase comprising 16 stretches of plain line track along the eastern and western sections of the East-West Line, and the Woodlands section of the North-South Line will be implemented between 2014 and 2016. This includes the stretch along Choa Chu Kang Street 62 to Pang Sua Park Connector, which will benefit residents staying near Yew Tee MRT station.

The second phase, which will include the Keat Hong area, is expected to be completed by 2020. Details are still being worked out.