EMA holds session with Woodbrook business owners

The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) yesterday hosted a noise sensitisation session for several business owners (bars, clubs and restaurants) in the Woodbrook area. This intervention was opportune as the Environmental Police Unit (EPU) recently shut down the source of excessive noise emanating from several businesses along the Ariapita Avenue.

The forum allowed for a free flow of discussion to address specific concerns as it relates specifically to noise emanating from their establishments. Several members of the Woodbrook police, city police and the EPU were in attendance to facilitate business owners with understanding of the Noise Pollution Control Rules (NPCR) and the role of the EPU and the Trinidad and Tobago police service in addressing noise issues.

EMA’s Corporate Relations and Public Education Manager, Tisha Marajh, facilitated the meeting. She said that while owners have a right to operate their businesses, residents also have a right to enjoy their property in peace. Marajh said that this session was the first of many interventions to come as it provides opportunities for solutions in addressing the issue of noise.

Noise issues that were discussed include: The NPCR and its requirements as it pertains to zones in Trinidad and Tobago; the NPCR as it relates to the noise levels for particular areas during the day and night; explanation of the various noise levels and the measuring of these noise levels, the role of the EPU and how they intervene and the legal recourse of the EMA once a breach in the NPCR has been established.

Several suggestions and recommendations resulted from the meeting and the EMA in collaboration with the EPU are committed to maintaining relations with the Woodbrook Business Association in an effort to effectively manage the noise issue along Ariapita Avenue. Business owners also clearly indicated their willingness to work with residents, the EMA, EPU and other officers, in reducing their noise levels to acceptable standards.

According to EMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr Joth Singh, the ongoing noise issue within the Woodbrook area, particularly along Ariapita Avenue, has been a challenging one. “The EMA in collaboration with the EPU, intends to continue working closely with the Woodbrook police, City Police, and the Woodbrook business owners, to better inform establishments of the Noise Pollution Control Rules and measures by which the noise nuisance can be alleviated,” Singh said.