Residents in Block 424 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 were startled to find construction activities persisting well into the night, with the noise from the construction site permeating into the nearby residences well after 3.30am in the middle of the night, according to STOMP.
Stomp Contributor’s Midnight Ordeal
A netizen, Vincent, shared a video captured at 3:30 am, showcasing two cranes in full operation. The persistent disturbance led his family to resort to earplugs, and his daughter struggled to sleep amidst the clamour.
A photo of a neighbor using a mattress to muffle the noise paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by the community.
Location and Purpose of Construction
Situated across from the Ang Mo Kio MRT station, the construction is part of the upcoming Cross-Island Line. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) clarified that diaphragm wall construction, involving deep excavation and concrete pouring, is essential for stability and safety reasons.
LTA’s spokesperson highlighted the critical nature of the ongoing works. Circulars and door-to-door engagements aimed to inform residents about the construction’s necessity.
Noise barriers, shields, and restricted machinery movement at night were implemented to mitigate disturbances.
They said that the works had to be carried out continuously to prevent the collapse of the “cut trench walls” and “ensure the stability of the surrounding ground and building structures”.
On the noise, they have “put in place a series of noise mitigation measures, such as the installation of noise barriers and localised noise shields around the machines as well as work zones.”
LTA is also seeking “residents’ understanding” on the matter.
The current phase near Vincent’s block is expected to conclude by month-end. The LTA seeks residents’ understanding, emphasizing ongoing collaboration with contractors for potential adjustments.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) regulates permissible noise levels for construction. Weekends and public holidays have strict no-work periods.