Kumasi monitors noise levels

The Noise Control Unit of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) would today end a week-long public education and monitoring on noise pollution exercise in the Metropolis.

The exercise was designed to sensitize the public on the health hazards of excessive noise and the need to control noise for a peaceful environment, which is a huge incentive to promote health and long life.

The Central Business District (CBD) at Adum, Asafo, Amakom, Stadium, Danyame and its environs are being monitored for the exercise.

Mr. Isaac Bassanyin, Head of the Noise Control Unit of the KMA, who spoke to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview, mentioned some of the risks those exposed to excessive noise are susceptible to as hearing loss or deafness; and sleep disturbances, which could trigger certain diseases.

He said potential noise emitters such as churches, open-air preachers, drinking spots and others, had been targeted and his office had given them Noise Regulatory Permits and licenses with the aim of regulating the noise level of a particular place and particular time.

“This gives no excuse to flouters of the noise regulation because those whose noise levels exceed the required would have their instruments seized in accordance to the law,” he said.

Mr Bassanyin said so far results from monitoring the noise level in targeted areas had been good.

He called for cooperation from the public and said the exercise was not meant to interfere with their businesses, but to regulate the noise level in those communities for the common good.