Enugu State Government, on Thursday, announced that with effect from November 15, 2024, it would commence the enforcement of its anti-noise pollution policy.

This was announced by Chief Uche Anya, the Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA).

Anya made the announcement during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the state secretariat, attended by representatives of religious organisations, relaxation centres, among other stakeholders.

The ECTDA Chairman said the “zero noise policy,” would combat the rampant noise pollution plaguing the Enugu state metropolis.

“This initiative is not just about regulation; it’s about creating an eco-friendly environment that respects the rights of all Enugu residents,” Anya passionately declared.

According to report, the policy would include a strict ban on open-air music performances by bars and clubs in designated residential areas.

Additionally, the enforcement will target roadside parking, obstructing roads for personal events, and loud religious gatherings.

“Our mandate as the Capital Territory is to ensure that every decision benefits Enugu’s community.

“In the past year alone, we’ve received over a thousand complaints about noise pollution.

“The biggest challenge we face in Enugu today is noise pollution. Too many residents struggle to enjoy a good night’s sleep, disrupted by the raucous activities of clubs and religious organizations.

“Even more troubling, we’ve seen instances of drug abuse, robbery, and hooliganism creeping into our neighborhoods,” he said.

Anya made it clear: “Effective immediately, there will be no more open-air music in residential zones. Bars, clubs, and places of worship must equip themselves with soundproofing measures.

“I urge everyone to take the next 90 days to dismantle any public address systems outside your establishments for the good of all Enugu residents.”

The ECTDA also directed all religious and relaxation centers to remove outdoor public address systems, reinforcing their commitment to a quieter, more serene Enugu.

Anya, however, promised that the agency would be humane in handling the situation, which according to him, was not aimed at harming anyone, but to make the state conducive for living and for the best interest of the citizens.

In their separate speeches, religious leaders, Rev. Carley Ibekwe and Alhaji Sariki Sambo assured the agency of their readiness to comply with the directives.