The Lagos State Government has declared zero tolerance for noise pollution, tagged ‘Noiseless Lagos’ policy, during and after the yuletide period, over health implications for residents and the environment.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in the company of the General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, Dr Tunde Ajayi, stated this at a joint media briefing in Alausa, Ikeja.
Therefore, the commissioner warned residents to avoid excessive noise during the festivities, as violators would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.
According to Wahab: “Yuletide is the period 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-rounder festive activities, it is equally essential 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 many government regulations and advocacy. Let’s compare the gains of the celebration of this season with unregulated noises everywhere and the health and environmental consequences after the celebration. You will agree with me that there is a need for the state government to put necessary checks in place that will minimise and regulate permissible noise levels across various organisations 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 that will last for a short time.
“This is to reaffirm the Lagos State government’s Zero Tolerance for Noise Pollution in any part of the State, during and after the Yuletide, and 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, entertainment industry and the likes to abide by the ‘Noiseless Lagos’ policy of the State government by taking necessary steps to minimise noise levels that will be emanating from their operations or activities, because of its dangerous consequences on the health of the citizenry and the environment.’’
He said that in achieving the goal of zero tolerance for noise pollution in every part of the state and realising the vision for a noiseless Lagos that is peaceful, quieter, safer, and healthier at all times (during and after the Yuletide), the Lagos State government will implement some measures that will help strengthen our advocacy on minimising noise pollution in the state with immediate effect in the overall interest of the public.
