Letters to the Editor
View(s):The hidden harm of noise pollution
In our community, where tradition and daily life intertwine, an issue has arisen that needs our collective attention and understanding—noise pollution from temple/mosque loudspeakers. As someone who enjoys my daily walks through our scenic routes, I have noticed a growing problem that affects us all.
Recently, the loudspeakers installed at various temples for religious events have become a source of significant disturbance. These speakers, placed every 100 feet along the main roads, broadcast prayers and announcements loudly and persistently, well into the night and early morning. While the intention is to spread spiritual messages, the result is noise that intrudes into our homes and daily lives.
The effects of this noise pollution are particularly troubling for:
- Sick and elderly residents: Constant loud noise can exacerbate health problems and disrupt much-needed rest.
- Students: Those studying for exams or concentrating on their homework find it difficult to focus with such disruptions.
- General wellbeing: Continuous exposure to high noise levels can lead to stress, sleep disturbances, and a decrease in overall quality of life.
While environmental regulations are in place to control noise levels, enforcement appears to be lax. The law stipulates that loudspeakers should not be used beyond 11 p.m., yet these broadcasts often continue much later. This discrepancy raises questions about the effectiveness of current regulations and the authorities’ commitment to enforcing them.
On a recent trip to catch the 6.15 a.m. intercity train from Kandy, I observed further instances of noise pollution. I was subjected to the loud pirith from Thanekumbura temple and high-pitched announcements from the nearby Muslim Mosque. At the railway station, conversation was nearly impossible due to the blaring loudspeakers from the junction temple, which, notably, did not exist during our school days. The proximity of this temple to the hospital and police station makes the noise even more concerning. These institutions appear to accept sound pollution as a norm, further highlighting the pervasive nature of the problem.
Addressing this issue requires a balanced approach that respects both religious practices and community well-being. Here are a few suggestions:
- Dialogue with temple authorities: Citizens should engage in open discussions with temple priests to help raise awareness about the impact of noise pollution. Propose the use of lower volume settings and limited broadcast times.
- Community meetings: Organizing community meetings to discuss the issue and brainstorm potential solutions can foster a collective approach.
- Adherence to regulations: Encouraging local authorities to enforce existing noise regulations will ensure that everyone’s rights are respected.
Our community thrives on mutual respect and understanding. By addressing the issue of noise pollution thoughtfully and collaboratively, we can create an environment that honours our traditions while safeguarding our health and well-being. The Clean Lanka project should consider this aspect as well.
J.B. Kundasale
More on Baobab tree
In his article about the Baobab tree in the PLUS of January 5, the writer refers to the location of the tree as Pullimodai in Mannar. The correct name of this village is Pallimunai. The DS office in Mannar can confirm this.
The writer Ismeth Raheem also says that this tree was called “Judas Bag” as it was believed that Judas had hanged himself on the branches of this tree. I have heard of another version that the fruit of the Baobab tree has 30 seeds inside it, which corresponds to the number of pieces of silver paid to Judas for betraying Jesus.
Maybe a botanist among our readers will throw some light on this aspect.
Ainslie Joseph Via email
SLC should focus on dwindling spectator interest at Test venues
It is such a pity to see a limited spectator interest at many closely contested Test matches at home venues. Spectator interest should have been at the forefront of the Sri Lanka Cricket’s (SLC) attention. The authorities should understand that Test match cricket would not boom without a full house watching the action on the ground.
In the Test matches played recently in Galle, even the grass banks were not full. Such barrenness is not felt when Test matches are played in nations like India, Bangladesh, Australia and England. We all know that Sri Lankan fans are equally passionate about cricket. But the non-affluent local spectators face many constraints to watch a Test match unlike their counterparts in other countries.
In Sri Lanka there are enough and more cricket enthusiasts who are fanatical about watching cricket. They would be keen to watch the cricket if afforded the opportunity. Some type of incentives have to be offered to attract schoolboys to make the stands at least half-full.
Regrettably, it seems SLC authorities have not made any endeavour to draw spectators to the venues even when it was observed that there were only a handful at the beginning of a Test.
This should have also been given some serious attention as scenes with barren stands should not be exposed to the world when the matches are telecast worldwide.
Strategies should also have been thought of to attract spectators through incentives like free entrance. Low attendance reflects very shoddily on our cricket which is ranked highly amongst the world’s cricketing fraternity. With the world champions Australia due to play two Tests in the Test Championship series in Galle, the SLC authorities should make plans to attract more spectators without delay.
Sunil Thenabadu Via email
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