La Misère View-Point under lock and key during night time |16 July 2020

An environment official putting the final touches to the warning sign erected at the View-Point (Photo: Anel Robert)

Following several complaints of noise pollution and littering at the La Misère View-Point, the authorities have decided to control the admission to the well-known attraction to try and minimise the impact.

The common landmark will now be accessible only during daytime, while strict actions will be taken against those who do not respect the new regulations.

The View-Point will now be accessible to members of the public from 6am to 6pm daily.

According to Andre Freminot, the chief environment police officer from the environment police unit within the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change, the issue of antisocial behaviour and littering has been going on for quite a while and many complaints have been made, especially regarding the antisocial behaviour which escalated to early hours of the morning.

Mr Freminot explained that other that noise pollution along with antisocial behaviour, the main concern regarding the place is littering which requires extra funding to clean.

He further explained that rubbish such as empty alcohol cans and bottles, along with food packages and boxes are the most common, while toiletries such as tissues and wipes are also left behind, causing an eyesore for those who use the place.

Members of the public are reminded that it is an offence to consume alcohol in a non-designated place, carrying a R200 fixed penalty, which can result into prosecution if not paid.

As for the environment police unit, it is mandated to carry out enforcement duties related to pollution control, prevention and abatement as is prescribed in the overarching Environment Protection Act 1994 (EPA).

The daily work of these officers include investigation of complaints and cases of illegal dumping, solid waste management inspection, foot patrol in town area for littering, preparedness and response to oil spill incidents, issuing of fixed penalties among others.

The officers also help the department of environment in the investigation and compilation of case files for environmental offences. They also respond to certain Greenline cases.

Roland Duval