The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) on Thursday evening raided Kilimani’s Oyster Bay restaurant following complaints of noise pollution and ordered its closure.
According to a letter issued by NEMA, Kilimani residents have complained about ‘extremely loud music’ that interferes with their comfort, repose, health, and safety.
NEMA stated that this was in violation of the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) of 1999 and the Environmental Management and Coordination (Noise and Excessive Vibration Pollution Control) Regulations of 2009.
The authority also stated that Oyster Bay had not submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) project report and thus was operating without a license.
According to the letter, several operations were carried out at the premise, and equipment was confiscated, and management was asked to improve in certain areas, but there was little cooperation.
To avoid further harm to the public, NEMA boss Mamo Boru Mamo ordered the restaurant to close immediately.
“As the principal agency of government-mandated to ensure a clean and healthy environment, the Authority hereby orders you to immediately cease operations of this facility to avert further harm to members of the public until you demonstrate to the Authority that you have complied with the provisions of EMCA, 1999 and the Environmental Management and Coordination (Noise and Excessive Vibration Pollution Control) Regulations, 2009,” Mamo said.
Oyster Bay was among a number of clubs that were closed in 2022 late by County Governor Johnson Sakaja for noise pollution.
The governor has consistently said all night clubs and restaurants playing loud music in residential areas must install sound proves or cease operating.
His stance was supported by President William Ruto.
