By Cayen Faith
Kampala Capital City Authority has issued a public notice warning businesses, places of worship and event organisers against noise pollution in the city.
The authority says enforcement takes effect immediately and will target those violating the National Environment Noise Standards and Control Regulations, 2003.
The directive applies to bars, restaurants, discotheques, live bands, concert organisers and places of worship, among other noise-generating premises.
KCCA says operators must comply with the approved sound levels to protect public order, health and the environment across the capital.
According to the notice, noise levels in hospitals, schools and court areas must not exceed 45 decibels during daytime, from 6am to 10pm, and 35 decibels at night, from 10pm to 6am.
In residential areas, the permissible limit is 50 decibels during the day and 35 decibels at night. For mixed residential and commercial areas, the limit is 55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels at night.
Areas with residential and small industrial activity are allowed up to 60 decibels during the day and 50 decibels at night, while industrial areas are limited to 70 decibels during daytime and 60 decibels at night.
KCCA has advised business owners and operators to install noise limiters, soundproof their premises and regularly monitor noise emissions to remain within the law.
The authority says failure to comply will attract enforcement action, including fines, confiscation of sound equipment, suspension of business licences, prosecution and possible closure of offending premises.
Members of the public have been encouraged to report noise violations or seek guidance through the KCCA noise pollution hotline: 0719 003 000.
