There is no enforcement in Singapore

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Forum: Govt must act firmly against residents who break rules in HDB estates​

Dec 11, 2024

Incidents of residents cluttering the common corridors at HDB blocks are a symptom of a larger problem – the lack of enforcement of existing rules and regulations.

For decades, rules have been in place to maintain the cleanliness and safety of public housing estates, and to foster community living. However, a lack of consistent enforcement has created a culture of non-compliance in some residents. This has led to some residents feeling that they can disregard the rules without consequences.

By not taking a firmer stance against rule-breakers, the authorities are inadvertently condoning bad behaviour. This creates an unfair environment for responsible residents who take pride in their living spaces.

The authorities’ reliance on education and engagement alone is insufficient. While these efforts are important, they are no substitute for consistent enforcement of rules.

It is time for a more proactive approach to enforcing rules and regulations in public housing estates. This includes increasing patrols, issuing warnings and fines, and working with residents to maintain clean and safe living environments.

Only by taking a firmer stance against irresponsible behaviour can we create a more considerate and community-minded society.

Mohamad Nurhafiz Mohd Noor

 

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Forum: Dealing with municipal disamenities has to be prompt and effective​

Dec 13, 2024

I agree completely with Mr Mohamad Nurhafiz Mohd Noor (Govt must act firmly against residents who break rules in HDB estates, Dec 11) as I had been mulling over writing a similar letter.

In my HDB block and the immediate areas, one can see, smell or hear illegal activities every day, such as littering, bird feeding, smoking at the staircase and void deck, and loud noises during silent hours.

Residents have complained over the years, but actions taken have been ineffective or unreasonably delayed.

For example, it took me four complaints over four months and a letter to the National Environment Agency (NEA) chief executive before there was finally effective action against illegal smoking at a coffee shop.

NEA later explained that earlier enforcement had not worked because officers had not gone at the times when the offenders were there, which I had stated clearly.

The situation is the same for smoking in other prohibited areas. Multiple complaints, same perpetrators, but the unpleasant situation persists. In fact, when I confronted one of the lawbreakers, he brazenly said: “NEA cannot catch me; I am not afraid of them.”

My “favourite” example is that of bird-feeding, which has contributed to huge flocks of pigeons and dozens of thriving, screeching jungle fowl which start their day at 4am.

I do see banners educating people about this illegal act, but there are still many bird-feeders around.

Can the authorities take a leaf out of the Singapore Police Force’s book, which is to have pop-up boards stating how many people have been fined for such activities in the area?

Tan Yi Shu

 

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Forum: Minimise construction noise for better HDB living​

Dec 20, 2024

Despite numerous complaints and regulatory efforts, excessive noise pollution from construction activities in densely populated HDB estates remains a significant and unresolved issue.

I’ve noticed this in areas like Choa Chu Kang/Teck Whye, where projects such as the construction of new electrical switch rooms, addition and alteration of drop-off porches, and improvement works to surface carparks continue to disrupt residents’ peace.

A primary culprit is the use of noisy excavator-mounted concrete breakers, without adequate consideration for quieter alternatives. While the National Environment Agency (NEA) has implemented noise regulations, enforcement and accountability remain inadequate, further exacerbating the situation, leaving residents to bear the brunt of the noise pollution.

I have repeatedly raised concerns about this issue through letters to The Straits Times Forum, and feel that more can be done.

To address this persistent problem, we must:

– Strengthen enforcement: The NEA should impose stricter penalties for noise violations and hold the employers, and consultants, besides the contractors, accountable for adhering to noise regulations.

– Promote quieter construction: Prioritise environmentally friendly construction methods and encourage the adoption of quieter technologies. Explore alternative tools and techniques such as stitch coring, low-noise hydraulic breakers or silenced models designed for urban or noise-sensitive areas, to reduce noise pollution without compromising efficiency.


– Leverage the Quieter Construction Innovation Fund: The NEA should actively promote the use of this fund to incentivise the adoption of quieter construction practices.

Government agencies, contractors and policymakers must work together to address this pressing issue.

Residents in HDB estates deserve a peaceful living environment, free from the relentless disruption caused by excessive construction noise.

Loong Chik Tong