Noisy motorbikes in Coco Beach

Over the past few months, I have seen gangs of bikers riding noisy motorbikes on the Coco beach highway. Can they make such loud noises on a road where even the Prime Minister resides? What guidelines are there on noise and speed?
NL, Dar es Salaam

Your concern about noisy motorbikes along the Coco Beach highway is well-founded, and the law does provide clear standards to address such disturbances. The Environmental Management (Standards for the Control of Noise and Vibrations Pollution) Regulations, 2015, made under the Environmental Management Act, Cap. 191, prohibit the generation of excessive or intrusive noise in public areas, including roads. Specifically, Regulation 13 prohibits noise in streets that exceeds permissible levels. Regulation 14 designates areas such as residential zones, hospitals, and recreational spaces as noise control zones, where even stricter noise limits apply. Given that Coco Beach is a mixed-use area with residential, recreational, and diplomatic significance, including proximity to high-level government residences, it would likely fall within such a zone.

In addition, the Road Traffic Act, Cap. 168 empowers the police to regulate vehicle behaviour, including speed and mechanical condition. Under this Act, vehicles (including motorcycles) that emit excessive noise due to modified exhaust systems or reckless driving may be subject to enforcement action. Speed limits are also enforceable under this law, and violations can lead to fines and loss of driving license. Furthermore, the Kinondoni Municipal Council bylaws prohibit excessive noise in public and residential areas and impose penalties on individuals found violating them. If the noise persists, residents and concerned citizens can report the matter to the National Environment Management Council (NEMC) or the Kinondoni Municipal Council, which have the authority to issue stop orders, notices, or initiate enforcement proceedings. Law enforcement officers may also curb reckless or noisy driving. Consult your lawyer for further guidance but we see this as an easy fix.