Singapore: One of the Noisiest Cities in the World

A recent survey has revealed that Singapore is one of the noisiest cities in the world, ranking among the top 10. The study, which analysed noise levels across major cities globally, found that Singapore’s average outdoor sound level throughout the day is a staggering 69.4 decibels, equivalent to the noise made by a vacuum cleaner.

This exceeds the National Environmental Agency’s recommendation of no more than 67 decibels averaged over an hour and is just shy of the World Health Organisation’s threshold of 70 decibels a day, consistent exposure to which can cause hearing impairment.

Noisiest Neighbourhoods in Singapore

The study, conducted by researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS), identified the noisiest areas in the city-state. Serangoon tops the list with an average of 73.1 decibels, followed by Orchard and Outram (both 72.8 decibels) and Bukit Timah (72.6 decibels).

Other noisy neighbourhoods include:

• Clementi (71.8 decibels)
• Kallang (71.5 decibels)
• Marina South (71.0 decibels)
• Downtown Core (71.0 decibels)
• Yishun (70.8 decibels)
• Rochor (70.3 decibels)

The researchers attribute the high noise levels to a combination of factors, including heavy traffic, construction activities, and the proximity of residential areas to commercial hubs and transportation nodes.

Causes of Noise Pollution in Singapore

Traffic Noise

One of the primary contributors to noise pollution in Singapore is traffic. The city’s dense population and extensive road network generate a constant din of honking horns, revving engines, and screeching tyres. The widening of major expressways, such as the Central Expressway (CTE), has exacerbated the problem in some neighbourhoods.

Construction Noise

Singapore’s rapid development and ongoing construction projects are another significant source of noise pollution. Demolition work, drilling, and the operation of heavy machinery can produce noise levels exceeding 100 decibels at any given time, well above the National Environment Agency’s limit of 90 decibels for construction work.

Proximity to Commercial and Transportation Hubs

Many of Singapore’s noisiest neighbourhoods are located near bustling commercial areas and transportation hubs. The proximity of residential blocks to shopping malls, hawker centres, playgrounds, and MRT stations contributes to the overall noise levels.

Impact on Residents

The high noise levels in Singapore have taken a toll on residents, both physically and mentally. Many have reported difficulty sleeping, increased stress levels, and even hearing impairment due to prolonged exposure to excessive noise.

In densely populated areas like Serangoon, Clementi, and Bukit Timah, residents have resorted to using pillows to muffle the sounds of passing trains and traffic at night. Some have even reported having to shout to communicate with their neighbours due to the constant cacophony outside their homes.

Government Efforts to Mitigate Noise Pollution

The Singaporean government has taken several measures to address the issue of noise pollution, including:

• Tighter enforcement of construction site regulations
• Implementation of urban planning guidelines to ensure adequate noise mitigation measures in new developments
• Trials of various noise reduction solutions, such as railway noise barriers

However, some experts believe that these efforts may not be able to keep pace with the city’s rapid growth and development. As Singapore continues to expand its infrastructure and population, the problem of noise pollution is likely to persist and even worsen in the coming years.

Comparison with Other Cities

While Singapore ranks among the top 10 noisiest cities globally, it is not alone in its struggle with noise pollution. Other major cities around the world, such as Mexico City, Cairo, and Delhi, also face similar challenges due to factors like heavy traffic, construction activities, and industrial operations.

A study by the World Health Organisation (WHO) found that more than 1 million healthy life years are lost each year in Western Europe due to traffic-related noise pollution. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that approximately 100 million Americans live in areas where noise levels exceed those recommended by the agency.

Potential Solutions

To effectively address the issue of noise pollution in Singapore, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. This may include:

• Promoting the use of quieter vehicles and machinery
• Implementing stricter regulations on noise levels from construction sites and industrial operations
• Investing in noise-reducing infrastructure, such as sound barriers and acoustic insulation
• Encouraging urban planning that separates residential areas from major noise sources
• Raising public awareness about the health impacts of noise pollution and promoting noise-reduction measures

Conclusion

Singapore’s status as one of the noisiest cities in the world is a cause for concern, particularly given the potential health implications of prolonged exposure to excessive noise. While the government has taken steps to address the issue, more comprehensive and long-term solutions are needed to ensure that residents can enjoy a peaceful and healthy living environment.

As individuals, we can also play a role in reducing noise pollution by being considerate of our neighbours, supporting the development of quieter technologies, and advocating for stricter noise regulations and enforcement. Only through a collaborative effort between the government, businesses, and citizens can Singapore effectively tackle the challenge of noise pollution and maintain its reputation as a livable and sustainable city.