Gov’t to crack down on noise pollution

By Mark DaCosta- The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government of Guyana may finally crackdown on noise pollution. This follows mounting complaints from citizens about the growing menace. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, has voiced strong concerns regarding the issue, describing noise pollution as a serious offence that infringes on public peace and disrupts the lives of many across the country.

During his weekly “Issues in the News” programme, the Attorney General reminded the public that excessive noise is not just a nuisance, but a criminal act punishable under Guyana’s laws. “I keep saying that while you can make noise and while you can play loud music, you cannot play it so loud that it constitutes a nuisance to your neighbour,” Nandlall stated.

He highlighted that both the Summary Jurisdiction Offences Act and the Environmental Protection Act make provisions to address noise pollution, adding that penalties range from $300,000 to $750,000 in fines, and up to one year’s imprisonment for offenders.

The push for more robust enforcement of these laws comes as noise complaints continue to flood law enforcement and government offices. According to Nandlall, the issue is not only limited to music blaring from homes and businesses but also extends to loud music from vehicles.

“This pollution of our environment cannot continue unabated, it cannot continue unchecked,” he emphasised. The police have been instructed to seize equipment causing the noise disturbance, including sound systems and music carts, to ensure compliance with the law.

Nandlall said that the government is also considering more severe penalties for repeat offenders. Discussions between the Attorney General and the Minister of Home Affairs are already underway, and a proposal will be presented to Cabinet, the Attorney General said. The proposed amendments may involve increasing fines and imposing longer prison terms to deter those who continuously violate noise regulations.

Nandlall acknowledged the need for balance between individuals’ right to play music and others’ right to peace and quiet. “In the same way you have a right to listen and enjoy your music, the neighbour has a right not to hear it — and has a right to the peaceful and quiet enjoyment of his/her home,” the Attorney General pointed out.

The government has also indicated that noise regulations are not limited to residential areas but extend to public spaces and construction sites, where late-night activities have also been a source of frustration for citizens.

Noise pollution standards in Guyana are set by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), which specifies that noise levels should not exceed 75 decibels during the day and 60 decibels at night in residential areas. However, Nandlall has pointed out that despite these established guidelines, enforcement has been lax. To address this, the government plans to revive its campaign to confiscate noise-making equipment, a strategy that had previously been effective in curbing excessive noise.

The surge in noise complaints has apparently prompted the government to place greater emphasis on addressing this issue as part of its broader environmental protection efforts. As Nandlall highlighted, “If we need greater penalties, then we will take the proposal to Cabinet for its consideration.” The aim is to implement stricter laws that will create a lasting impact on those who continuously disturb public tranquillity.

Noise pollution is more than just an annoyance — it disrupts daily life, impedes productivity, and contributes to stress and health issues such as sleep disturbances.

As our country continues to develop, it is crucial that measures are put in place to protect the rights of all citizens to enjoy a peaceful environment. Strengthening enforcement, raising awareness, and increasing penalties are vital steps toward addressing the issue of noise pollution in Guyana. Guyanese are, without doubt, hopeful that the PPP government keeps its word – this time – and addresses this most pressing issue.