Noisy nightclubs and lounges could face legal action, administrative closure or fines for failure to drop their sound levels to solve issues with angry, sleep-deprived neighbours.
Five MPs led by foreign affairs, defence and national security committee chairman Hassan Bukhammas, who is also Capital Governorate constituency four (Al Fateh, Guraifa, Juffair, Umm Al Hassam, Gudaibiya, Mina Salman, Adliya and Abu Ghazal) representative, are seeking the move.
The MPs want tourist facilities responsible for disturbances to instal sound buffers within a period determined by the relevant authorities, as many residents in bustling areas such as Juffair and Hoora continue to complain that they are being robbed of their peace of mind.
Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi issued a decision in March to oblige tourist facilities designated for food and beverage services in hotels to close completely at 3am, starting at last month’s Eid Al Fitr.
Under the decision published in the Official Gazette, all musicians, artistic and musical performances must stop at 2.30am in specified facilities and restaurants.
“That’s all good and well but 2.30am or 3am timings are way beyond fair for many families who have to wake up a few hours later to get ready for work or school,” claimed Mr Bukhammas, who is a Juffair resident.
“The loud music that we residents have to deal with is often annoying, irritating and tiresome,” he added. “In some places there is only a three-hour ‘sound of silence’ gap before restaurants open once again to customers to serve breakfast.”
The licences of two hospitality outlets were suspended for violating tourism laws and regulations, according to last week’s Official Gazette.
Ms Al Sairafi issued a decision to suspend the licences of the Joker Night Club, which is part of the Panorama Hotel in Manama, for a month, and Cricketers Restaurant and Lounge for two months.
According to the decision, the management of both establishments failed to comply with the provisions of tourism legislations in ways that affect the interests of national tourism.
Mr Bukhammas believes it is time for tough action against the noise polluters.
“Some outlets have to learn good manners and good neighbourliness and that only comes when faced with possible legal action, administrative closure or fines,” he added.
“The authorities concerned could give them six-months notice to instal studio-like soundproofing or else enforce disciplinary measures.
“We already deal with strobe lights and laser installations outside tourist facilities forcing many families to buy blackout curtains. They shouldn’t have to be burdened with the cost of sound-proofing their homes too. Enough is enough.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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