Layibi Division authorities in Gulu Municipality are in a bitter row with evangelical and born again churches over noise pollution which they claim it is chasing away businesses.

Alfred Oluba, the Division Chairman of Layibi in his Executive Report to the 5th council meeting noted that, the rapidly mushrooming churches are causing distress to residents, but particularly driving out businesses who have decided to leave such areas in search of a much peaceful place.

He also said that this in turn has backfired on the division since they are collecting low revenue due to the persistent noise level during worship which never seems to end, day or night.

Layibi division authorities have therefore threatened to close the churches down unless they abide by the division’s demand of reducing the level of their noise pollution.

Attempts to get comments from some of the leaders of the churches were futile since they were unwilling to speak to the press.

Gulu town continuously experiences blaring music from restaurants, discos and noises from churches, leaving many town dwellers angry and annoyed; because they are unable to stop the trend.

In April 2011, Gulu Municipal council decided to uphold a by-law passed last year making way for limits on the decibel (dB) levels that can be emitted before sound is officially deemed a disturbance after complaints by residents, but this by-law remains unenforced.

The National Environmental Act sets standards for noise in residential areas and commercial areas at night at 50 decibels.

Failure to take heed could is supposed to lead to closure of a business premise or a fine or both.