Gospel preachers taking over Koforidua streets

Koforidua, Nov. 21, GNA - A number of preachers of the Gospel have taken over the commercial streets in Koforidua with some of their preaching activities causing nuisance to the public.

The preachers, who are occupying virtually every space on the street, especially the Commercial Bank area, mount huge speakers at vantage points and on the shoulders of the streets thus inconveniencing the public.

They also use large and long electrical cables stretched across the streets, which sometimes trapped some individuals.

The noise from the loud speakers used by the preachers for music and sermons is unbearable to commuters.

When the GNA contacted the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on measures being taken to check the noise pollution, the Regional Director, Mr Addo Okyireh, said they had received many complaints from the public, including the Management of the Ghana Commercial Bank.

He indicated to GNA that sometime this year, the EPA measured the noise levels of those activities and realized that it was 70 decibels, which was normal and permitted by the EPA in commercial areas during the day.

However, he gave the assurance that with the complaints and the general outcry from the public, his outfit would take measures by constantly measuring the noise levels in the commercial area and recommend to the municipal assembly for action.

Mr Okyireh explained that the EPA works in collaboration with the municipal and district assemblies after they have assessed the environmental impact of activities and make recommendations to the assemblies for the enforcements of the bye-laws.

GNA