Sogakope: The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Sogakope Area Office, has advised the public to observe approved noise regulations during the festive season to ensure public health and community harmony. Mr. Derick Ashia Logo, Area Head of the EPA Sogakope Area Office, emphasized that this guidance applies to religious institutions, entertainment centers, restaurants, eateries, caf©s, and households within Sogakope and its surrounding communities.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Logo highlighted that operators of churches, mosques, shrines, pubs, bars, nightclubs, and similar facilities are expected to ensure that noise generated from their activities remains within the permissible limits prescribed under the Ghana Standards for Health Protection - Requirements for Ambient Noise (GS 1222:2018). The approved noise levels for residential areas are set at 55 decibels during the daytime between 6:00 and 22:00 hours and 48 decibels at night from 22:00 to 6:00 hours.
Mr. Logo also reminded managers and owners of facilities of the necessity to operate with valid Environmental Permits, noting that operating without a permit or with an expired one is not allowed. He encouraged operators without valid permits to visit the EPA Sogakope Area Office to regularize their operations.
He added that the Authority would continue to engage the public through education and stakeholder collaboration and encouraged residents to report noise-related concerns to their office. Mr. Logo appealed to the public to cooperate with the Authority to help maintain a peaceful and healthy environment during the festive period.