I would like pose a hypothetical question and enquire about any laws in place that regulate noise pollution and whether these are currently being enforced.

The other evening we had a lovely fireworks display pertaining to the Lija feast. The skill and mastery involved in creating these fantastic works of art is simply incredible and should definitely not be stopped or hindered.

On the other hand, with these fantastic colourful displays of light come also the very loud bangs and these, on the other hand, should be limited, controlled or stopped altogether. Surely you can manufacture a beautiful light display with very little sound.

I have heard that the noise is some kind of status symbol amongst firework factories and enthusiasts, where the louder the noise of the firework, the better the fireworks manufacturer is said to be. One sometimes hears the enthusiasts ask: “Smajtha tfaqqa dik”!? (did you hear that one go off?)

In the Iklin area, when the Lija, Balzan, Naxxar or Birkikara feasts approach, we have to brace ourselves for a week of loud noise – sometimes so loud that it makes the window glass vibrate.

This is not only a nuisance for people but actually noise pollution at its very worst, terrifying young children and bothering the old and sick. Not to mention the useless petards during the day that simply let off a loud bang and a puff of smoke to somehow “salute” the saint being celebrated! What is the sense in that?

My questions to the authorities are: Are there any limits in place when it comes to noise pollution on fireworks?

Is there a true willingness for the authorities to control this form of pollution, or are they scared this might lose political votes? If limits are imposed, when will these be enforced?

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