Teams deployed to enforce new noise law

By KENAN MIRUKA and ROSELYN OBALA

The National Environmental Management Authority has issued a two-week notice to the public to comply with the new noise reduction laws or face legal action.

On notice are bar proprietors, owners of social places and recreational centres including hotels, clubs and churches.

Enforcement and Compliance Officer for Nyanza Saisi Aura led a team of officers on an inspection tour in Kisii to assess compliance.

The team also inspected pubs, churches and hotels in Keroka, Ogembo, Mogonga and Nyangusu towns.

Most bars were found to be playing loud music, contrary to the Noise, Excess Vibration and Pollution Control Regulation of 2009.

Legal action

Speaking in Gucha, Aura said legal action would be taken against those who fail to comply at the expiry of the 14-day notice.

Sections 27 and 28 of the Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act 2009 say violators risk a fine of up to Sh350,000 or 18 months in jail or both. Saisi said since that law was introduced, the level of compliance in Nyanza had improved.

"Despite challenges we face, we won’t backtrack on this law," said Kisii Central District Environment Officer Samson Bokea.

His Gucha counterpart Vincent Ochieng said the new Constitution had made enforcement of law easy.

"The public should look at this law positively. Many people have suffered health complications due to noise pollution," said Ochieng.

Meanwhile, Nema has embarked on a 24-hour crackdown on noise pollution in Western Province.

The exercise kicked off in earnest ahead of the New Year celebrations.

Western Provincial Director of Environment Omondi Were said they would intensify inspections.

"We began the exercise here on Wednesday and carried out inspections in bars, discos, churches and the mosques," he said.

Mr Were added: "We are monitoring road shows and promotions to make sure they maintain accepted voice levels."

Were, who spoke in his Kakamega office, said they had shifted focus to matatus playing loud music.

"We are going to be vigilant. We are not going spare anyone who fails to comply because we must have a quiet and peaceful New Year," he said.