No let-up in enforcing rules on idling car engines: NEA

We refer to Voices writer Inderjeet Singh Rikhraj’s letter, “New campaign and stiffer penalties needed for car engines left idling” (Sept 4).

In addition to increasing the fine for idling-engine offences in 2016, the National Environment Agency (NEA) stepped up enforcement checks and reached out to motorists on the importance of switching off their vehicle engines when stationary for reasons other than traffic conditions.

These efforts contributed to a drop in the number of cases from 6,400 in 2016 to 4,800 in 2017 and 3,200 last year. The number of repeat offenders has also declined since 2016.

There has been no let-up in our enforcement efforts.

NEA works closely with authorised vehicle-inspection centres, vehicle-fleet owners and schools to disseminate pamphlets, so as to raise awareness of the regulations and promote compliance by motorists.

We take public feedback seriously and thoroughly investigate complaints.

The public may provide NEA with feedback on idling engines via the feedback form on www.nea.gov.sg, the myENV mobile application, or the agency’s hotline on 1800 225 5632.

We urge everyone to play their part in keeping our environment clean and ensuring high standards of public health.

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