In a decisive move to address the growing issue of noise pollution, Commander of Region Nine (Upper Takutu- Upper Essequibo) Senior Superintendent, Raphael Rose and a team of police officers have issued warning letters to several entertainment venues, hotels, and bars within the Lethem Township.
This action is part of a broader effort to enforce noise regulations and ensure that all establishments comply with the laws governing noise pollution in Guyana.
During the visits to the area earlier this week, the proprietors of these establishments were informed of the legal requirements related to noise control and were cautioned about the potential consequences of non-compliance.
Proprietors receiving their letters from Commander Rose
The proprietors have since committed to adhering to the regulations, promising to take immediate steps to reduce noise levels and prevent further disturbances to the community.
This enforcement action follows a concerted effort by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to mitigate noise pollution across the country. On August 13 and 14, 43 police officers from various stations, including Wales, Leonora, Parika, Leguan, and Vreed-en-Hoop, received specialised training in noise management. The training, a collaborative initiative between the EPA and the GPF, aimed to equip officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and enforce noise regulations.
The comprehensive training covered a range of topics, including the EPA’s role in noise management, understanding the impacts of noise pollution, the regulatory responsibilities of the EPA and GPF, and evidence-based enforcement strategies. Officers also received hands-on experience using noise meters to measure sound levels and collect evidence, a critical tool in enforcing noise regulations.
The training initiative is part of an ongoing partnership between the EPA and the GPF, formalised in a Memorandum of Agreement signed in 2022. This agreement has facilitated closer collaboration between the two agencies in training and enforcement activities, leading to more stringent penalties for noise violations. Last year, the EPA provided the GPF with 25 sound level meters, further enhancing their capacity to monitor and control noise levels.
Under the current regulations, fines for noise pollution can vary significantly depending on the agency enforcing the penalty. For first-time offenders, fines imposed by the GPF range from $7,500 to $15,000, while second-time offenses can result in fines between $10,000 and $20,000.
However, under the EPA Act, penalties are substantially higher, starting at $80,000 and going up to $750,000, reflecting the seriousness with which the agency views noise pollution.
With continued efforts and stricter enforcement, noise levels in communities across the country are hoped to be significantly reduced, ensuring a more peaceful environment for all residents.
The training, a collaborative initiative between the EPA and the GPF, aimed to equip officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and enforce noise regulations.
