Editor,

I wish to congratulate the authorities for finally taking needed action to protect us from unwanted noise pollution. Of course, both the places of worship and those for entertainment have a right to operate unhindered.

But it is essential for them to also appreciate that some of us treasure our quietude and feel seriously put upon by the noise of their goings-on, whether in places of worship or in music halls and night spots.

The onus is on them to preach to or entertain only those who have explicitly expressed desire to their respective services, not impose these on hapless neighbours who have not positively indicated their interest in becoming members of their flock or their patrons.

The rules of good neighbourliness demand that one avoids imposing on neighbours that which they have not expressly requested or agreed to.

What the preachers or music halls owners do within their – hopefully appropriately acoustically sealed – places of business is up to them, but many of us are absolutely not interested in being involved, whether from afar or from near.

Mwene Kalinda

Reaction to the story, "Four church owners arrested over noise pollution” (The New Times, September 22)