Dear Editor,
A few weeks ago I read in the newspapers that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is clamping down on environmental pollution, including loud and excessive noise.
I was delighted, I told myself at last something will be done about these pervasive societal problems. So I called the EPA on 10 January 2007 and registered a complaint against my neighbours at East La Penitence who operate a mechanic workshop in the residential area where we live. I told the EPA about their operations Sunday to Sunday from early in the morning until way after 22:00 hours.
The workers hammer on metal, rev engines and honk horns. They spray paint and discharge waste oil into the drains. All day long we inhale noxious fumes. The workshop’s clients encumber our parapet and entrances and when members of my family or I object they often verbally abuse us in the filthiest language.
On 17 January 2007 two EPA officers turned up. I saw and spoke with them. They visited the workshop. I was ecstatic. More than two weeks later it is business as usual at the workshop. I called the EPA and told them what was happening. I asked about follow-up action by the EPA. No one could tell me anything. What’s the purpose then for their initial visit?
I am now so disappointed and deflated. I have to contemplate private action against the workshop since my family and I can take it no more.
Yours faithfully,
Mohamed Fazloor Yasin
Editor’s note
We are sending a copy of this letter to the Environ- mental Protection Agency for any comments they may wish to make.
