The completion dates for the North-South Corridor (NSC) have been pushed back by about two years, but residents living near construction sites can expect some relief from noise and dust from next year.
Responding to questions about the impact of the NSC's two-year delay, Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow said in Parliament on Tuesday (Oct 6) that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has been instructed to prioritise surface works.
The major structural works that generate the most noise and dust are expected to be completed by the end of 2027, while roads, footpaths and other affected spaces will be progressively reinstated from 2028, said Siow.
"The North-South Corridor is one of the most complex road projects we have undertaken in Singapore. It passes through densely built-up areas, including homes and older buildings, and bypasses major utilities, heavily used roads and even MRT lines," he explained.
As excavation progressed, actual conditions at several sites were found to be different and more difficult than indicated by pre-construction investigations.
At Gambas Avenue and Woodlands Avenue 8 for example, harder rock was found at shallower depths than expected, while fractured rock and groundwater seeping through cracks were encountered at Novena.
In the meantime, the authority will try to introduce more direct walking routes to shops and F&B establishments along the construction corridor, Siow said.
"LTA has installed signs and banners to help guide customers to affected businesses," Siow said.
He added that LTA and its contractors tried to add additional manpower and equipment, change construction methods and adjust the sequence of works to make up time.
However, engineers assessed that further attempts to compress the construction schedule under the known ground conditions would introduce significant safety risks.
Siow said safety would not be compromised in an attempt to recover lost time.
LTA monitors the ground, groundwater and nearby buildings and structures using instruments including sensors that can detect vibrations, cracks and tilts.
@asiaone Given that works are taking place near homes, operational roads and MRT infrastructure, works will not be rushed; but will move quickly and safely. Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow made these comments in Parliament on Tuesday (Oct 6), responding to questions from MPs on the North-South Corridor's revised timeline, following the discovery of ground conditions which have posed challenges. #sgnews #Singapore #Construction #Road #Parliament ♬ original sound - AsiaOne
"We will do everything in our power to ease the friction on the ground," he added, while asking for patience as engineers and workers complete the remaining works safely.
Separately, the Government, said Siow, will not give direct compensation to residents and businesses affected by delays to the NSC.
However, several businesses operating from HDB rental shops that have been most affected by the construction have been receiving rental rebates, and HDB will continue extending these where there are grounds to do so.
Siow acknowledged that the revised timeline has caused frustration among residents and businesses that have already endured prolonged construction.
"For residents, it means more noise, dust and general inconvenience at home," Siow said. "For businesses, it has affected customer traffic."
The minister also acknowledged that motorists and commuters have also faced road diversions, congestion and longer journeys.
Siow said the Government's general position is that it does not compensate stakeholders for project delays.
"Doing so would add significant costs upfront to these projects, because we would have to insure against multiple unknown scenarios," Siow explained.
However, he noted that LTA will work with local advisers to engage residents and businesses as construction progresses and consider practical measures to improve conditions on the ground.
@asiaone In Parliament on Tuesday (Oct 7), Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow explained plans and measures in place to mitigate the impact to businesses and residents amid the announced revisions to the North-South Corridor's project timeline. #sgnews #Singapore #Construction #Road #Parliament ♬ original sound - AsiaOne
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