‘As if the world is breaking’: Tampines residents woken up by traffic noise in the wee hours, Singapore News
Residents of Tampines, Singapore, are experiencing significant disruption to their daily lives due to increasing traffic noise, particularly during the early morning hours. More than ten residents have reported being awakened by the sounds of speeding vehicles, a problem that appears to have worsened with recent road construction projects.
Rising Noise Levels and Resident Concerns
Abdul Razak Subahan, a 65-year-old software developer living on Tampines Street 34, described the noise as jarring and disruptive, stating it’s “as if the world is breaking.” The issue was brought to the attention of Parliament in January by Tampines GRC MP Charlene Chen, who raised concerns about the impact on residents’ sleep, health, and children’s learning.
Road Construction as a Contributing Factor
Residents attribute the increased noise to the completion of the TPE flyover towards Changi East in 2023, as well as ongoing construction of a flyover near the Loyang Viaduct and a newly opened slip road towards Loyang and Tampines Avenue 7. While the TPE previously generated some noise, residents say it was previously tolerable. They fear the situation will deteriorate further when the Loyang Viaduct is completed in approximately two years, creating a “triple whammy” of noise sources.
Madam Huang, a 72-year-old retiree, lives in a unit facing the expressway and reports hearing traffic noise even with her windows closed. Her husband is particularly affected, often unable to sleep. Some residents have already moved from the area due to the noise, and others, like retiree Francis Cheng, are aware of at least three units that have been vacated for the same reason.
Official Response and Mitigation Efforts
Minister of State for Transport Baey Yam Keng, also an MP for Tampines GRC, stated that various noise mitigation measures are in place. These include the planned erection of permanent noise barriers along sections of the Loyang Viaduct facing residential blocks and the use of low-noise pavement mix. Dr. Chen has also written to the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Traffic Police seeking assistance.
An overnight enforcement operation on January 16, involving the LTA, the National Environment Agency, and the Traffic Police, resulted in the identification of several motorbikes emitting excessive noise. Dr. Chen emphasized that enforcement alone is insufficient and that addressing the root causes of the problem is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the increased noise in Tampines?
Residents attribute the increased noise to the completion of the TPE flyover in 2023, ongoing construction near the Loyang Viaduct, and a newly opened slip road.
What steps are being taken to address the noise concerns?
The Ministry of State for Transport stated that permanent noise barriers will be erected along sections of the Loyang Viaduct, and low-noise pavement mix will be used. An enforcement operation also identified motorbikes emitting excessive noise.
Are other areas in Singapore experiencing similar noise issues?
Yes, the latest HDB Sample Household Survey showed that residents islandwide were less satisfied with noise levels, with satisfaction dropping to 74% in 2025 from 75.7% in 2018.
As infrastructure continues to evolve in Singapore, how can urban planning best balance the needs of transportation with the well-being of residential communities?