Lagos threatens to shut motorparks over noise pollution

Lagos State government has threatened to shut any motor parks not complying with the state’s zero tolerance for noise pollution, reaffirming that it will enforce the law against noise pollution vigorously during this yuletide period.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, stated this on Monday during a press briefing to warn residents and corporate organisations against noise pollution this yuletide period.

The Commissioner stated that the regulatory agency, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), will be on the ground in different parts of the state for 24 hours to ensure compliance with a noiseless community.

According to him, LASEPA would be engaging in enforcement with other government agencies like the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps.

Wahab said: “As we are all aware, the yuletide is here. This is the season for celebrations, a time for joy, giving, and celebration. The atmosphere is gradually charging for the bigger celebrations. It is the period that is filled with various activities, celebrations, musicals, party affairs, clubbing, among other noisy activities marking the celebration.

“However, as this season is unique for its all-round festive activities, it is equally important that we prioritise the well-being of our people and the quality of life of all the residents. Noise pollution has remained a persistent problem in our dear state despite a lot of government regulations and advocacy around it.

“ If we compare the gains of the celebration of this season with unregulated noises everywhere, with its health and environmental consequences after the celebration, you will agree with me that there is the need for the state government to put necessary checks in place that will minimize and regulate permissible noise levels across various organizations and establishments in the state, so that we do not ignorantly take a step that will negatively and permanently endanger our health after the celebration of the season that will last for a short time.”

He reaffirmed the state government’s zero tolerance for noise pollution in any part of the state, during and after the yuletide.

“We are committed to enforcing this policy religiously. As we are approaching the yuletide, we are appealing to all residents, businesses, religious organisations, visitors to the state, industrial organisations, merrymakers, the entertainment industry, and the like to abide by the ‘Noiseless Lagos’ policy of the state government by taking necessary steps to minimize noise levels emanating from their operations or activities, because of its dangerous consequences on the health of the citizenry and the environment.

“In achieving our goal of zero tolerance for noise pollution in every part of the state, towards actualizing the vision for a noiseless Lagos that is peaceful, quieter, safer, and healthier at all times (during and after the yuletide), Lagos State government will be implementing some measures that will help to strengthen our advocacy on minimizing noise pollution in the state effective from this moment in the overall interest of the public.”