The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) is planning to introduce new regulations aimed at strengthening measures against noise pollution under the proposed new Environmental Act.
CEA Director General Hemantha Jayasinghe said the regulations are still in the planning stage and have not yet been implemented.
Under the proposed framework, noise pollution is expected to be treated as an offence for which a person could be arrested without a warrant, giving authorities greater powers to take action against violations.
Noise pollution has been a longstanding public concern in Sri Lanka, particularly due to excessive noise from loudspeakers, entertainment events, construction activities, industries and other sources in residential areas.
At present, environmental noise is regulated through standards and regulations under the National Environmental Act, while the police and other relevant authorities also have powers to take action in certain circumstances.
The CEA is now considering ways to strengthen the existing regulatory framework as part of the proposed new environmental legislation. The new provisions on noise pollution are expected to establish clearer mechanisms for enforcement.
However, the proposed changes are still at the planning stage and must go through the necessary legal process before they can become enforceable.
