SINGPAORE: There has been a steady increase in the number of complaints on noise from construction sites.

In the first 10 months of the year, the National Environment Agency (NEA) received 11,327 complaints. In 2007, there were 9,228 - a 50 per cent jump from 2006 when 6,160 complaints were received.

Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Yaacob Ibrahim gave this update in a written reply to Ang Mo Kio MP Lam Pin Min's question in Parliament.

Dr Yaacob said one of the reasons for the increase in complaints could be the corresponding increase in construction activity in Singapore. The number of construction sites went up by 22 per cent to about 6,100 last year.

Another reason could be higher expectations from the public for a quieter environment, he added.

Dr Yaacob said the NEA had tightened the permissible noise limits during night time and on Sundays and public holidays since October 2007. The agency had also increased the maximum fine for construction noise violations from S$20,000 to S$40,000.

It also takes action against errant contractors that repeatedly violate the permissible construction noise limits by issuing them restriction orders which limits the operation hours at their construction sites.

However, the minister pointed out that noise pollution cannot be eradicated completely as Singapore is a highly urbanised and compact city.

He assured the public that his ministry will work closely with the NEA and relevant agencies and stakeholders to review the regulatory framework for construction noise regularly.

- CNA/yb