Chiayi City Construction Site Noise Complaints Total 179 Annually; Environmental Bureau Demands Operator Management and Improvement
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Chiayi City's Environmental Protection Bureau is urging construction companies to self-manage noise pollution, a persistent issue in the densely populated urban area.
- Last year, 179 noise complaints related to construction sites were received, an 11.8% decrease from the previous year, indicating some improvement but highlighting the need for continued efforts.
- The bureau promotes "source noise reduction" and "pre-construction notification" principles, encouraging neighborly communication, controlled work hours, noise-dampening measures, and the use of monitoring equipment.
In the bustling city of Chiayi, where development and tourism are on the rise, construction sites have become an unavoidable part of the urban landscape. However, this growth comes with a persistent challenge: noise pollution. Liberty Times reports on the Chiayi City Environmental Protection Bureau's initiative to tackle this issue through enhanced self-management by construction firms.
The Environmental Protection Bureau is promoting self-management measures for construction sites, emphasizing the principles of 'source noise reduction' and 'pre-construction notification.'
The bureau's efforts focus on proactive measures, emphasizing 'source noise reduction' and 'pre-construction notification.' This approach encourages developers to engage with nearby residents, clearly communicate construction schedules, and address any specific concerns. The goal is to foster better neighborly relations and minimize disruptions, especially when high-noise activities like drilling or demolition are scheduled.
Last year, we received a total of 179 construction noise complaint cases, a decrease of 11.8% from the previous year's 203 cases.
While there has been a slight reduction in noise complaints compared to the previous year, the bureau acknowledges that further improvements are needed. Strict guidelines are in place regarding construction hours, particularly prohibiting noisy work during late nights, early mornings, and specific holiday periods. Penalties for non-compliance range from fines to more substantial sanctions if noise levels exceed regulated standards after warnings. The implementation of noise monitoring equipment is also encouraged to ensure real-time control and adjustment of sound levels, reflecting a commitment to a more peaceful urban environment.
For high-noise construction activities such as wall chiseling, excavation, demolition, or pile driving, advance notice should be posted or provided to nearby residents at least 3 days prior.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.