Maria David
TSUMEB residents have requested intervention by the Namibian police and town leadership to put an end to noise pollution caused by shebeens and bars in the town.
They said the persistent situation is causing major disturbance day and night to residents and learners who are trying to study.
The residents have also complained about the mushrooming of sheebens in town with very few abiding by the operating hours put in place.
Currently, bars are allowed to do business from 9:00 to 22:00 while others have licenses to operate until midnight. Club owners are expected to close their establishments at 03:00.
In response, the Tsumeb Municipality urged community members to submit a signed petition with regards to noise pollution to be able to address the matter accordingly and on merit.
Tsumeb mayor Mathews Hangula, however, said they cannot act on “hearsay” as the complaint is not attributed to anyone. It could be an individual which then means not all residents feel the same.
“Once the concern is brought to our attention, it’s a matter of applying the bylaw, and in collaboration with the police, we will act accordingly,” Hangula said.
He said sometimes the community should take ownership of the areas in which they live and not always turn to officials for assistance.
Community Affairs Officer Inspector Ellen Nehale said should any noise pollution cases be reported to Nampol, they will warn the culprit.
Nehale said if the noise persists even after the warning, the perpetrator risks being charged for public disturbance and getting arrested.
Photo for illustrative purposes only: Facebook.
