What do you think about the Mayor’s order on noise control?

The Mayor of Vientiane has ordered a curb on the amount of noise generated, in particular by places of entertainment, festivals, exhibitions and other events. The order forbids the playing of loud music after 11pm. Vientiane Times asked members of the public for their opinions on this issue.

Mr Onsy, a government official in Sikhottabong district, Vientiane: I think the clampdown is a good idea. I live in rented accommodation near an entertainment venue and it’s very noisy at night. I can’t sleep but I have to live in this area because it’s near my work and it’s not easy to find a new place. I’ve heard about the order but I don’t know if the village authorities are following through. The place of entertainment near where I live seems to close around 1-2am and sometimes not until 3am. I hope that this order will be put into effect. The authorities should clamp down on people who disturb the peace and venue operators should respect the regulations while thinking of nearby residents and not just themselves.

Ms Yha, a resident of Xaythany district, Vientiane: Whether it’s noisy neighbours partying into the small hours or entertainment venues bending the rules and playing loud music way past closing time, late night noise seems to be a constant bane for many Vientiane residents. I’m aware that the authorities have issued notices, agreements and orders in this respect every year, but nothing seems to change. To ensure that this latest order is effective, the authorities should set up a specialised agency to monitor this issue and be prepared to step in when problems arise.

Ms Noy, a resident of Vientiane province: I have read the regulation which forbids loud music after 11pm but the entertainment venues near my house don’t close until around 2am. And when there are parties in the neighbourhood they also generate a lot of noise after midnight and my family and I can’t sleep, especially my grandfather, who is ill. I don’t know if my neighbours are aware of the regulations but I think everyone should cooperate with the authorities and be considerate of others. Villagers should be informed of the regulations and authorities should issue warnings or fines for those who break the rules.

Mr Souk Chansamone,
a resident of Xaysettha district, Vientiane: I would like to give a million thanks to the authorities for trying to do something about this problem. In my neighbourhood there are always parties going on which make a lot of noise, and if you ask people to turn down the music they don’t pay attention. I’ve asked village officials to do something about this. Sometimes they go along and ask the revellers to down the volume but as soon as they leave the noise level increases again. I think parents should teach their children to show respect for other people so that we all live in harmony and show consideration for one another, as well as preserve our traditional way of life.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update March 24, 2022)