In the vibrant cityscape of Pattaya, the relentless echo of gunfire pierced the city’s routine peace, much to the detriment of its residents. Yet, a glimmer of hope emerged as Pattaya’s Deputy Mayor, Krisana Boonsawat, along with a brigade of diligent officials, tackled the pressing issue. Their mission: to bring much-needed tranquility to the tormented inhabitants of Jomtien Park Villa 2 in South Pattaya.
The source of their unrest was the aptly renamed 556 Shooting Club, formerly Guns Shooting and Battle range. This establishment’s incessant cacophony had continually shattered the serene ambiance of their neighboring village. A lengthy campaign spearheaded by the beleaguered residents ensued, culminating in frequent visits and, at times, a temporary cease-fire of operations due to persistent noise complaints.
Upon the arrival of the authorities, a palpable sense of gratitude washed over the residents, weary from sleepless nights disturbed by the booming noise. Following a decisive temporary shutdown by city officials, the shooting range embarked on significant noise-abatement endeavors. These ventures saw the construction of formidable soundproof walls, varying between 30 centimeters to 2 meters in thickness, the addition of soundproof insulation layers averaging 2 inches, and the strategic placement of 6 inches of sound-absorbing materials in key zones. These substantial modifications succeeded in muffling the external din, reducing noise levels to 56-58 decibels — comfortably below the legal threshold of 115 decibels. Internally, however, the thunderous clangor persisted at a daunting 120 decibels.
Still, the battle against persistent noise was far from complete. Neighborhood peace remained elusive, especially during the twilight hours of 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Here, the frequent testing of firearms routinely snatched away precious moments of serenity. The constant disruption gnawed at the mental health of residents, driving some to seek solace in psychiatric counsel, burdened by accumulated stress.
Determined to restore harmony, Deputy Mayor Boonsawat expressed the city’s resolve in fostering a balanced coexistence between the shooting range and its residential neighbors. Plans were set in motion to collaborate with the range operators to further curb the disturbance, including a potential revision of operating hours to mitigate the noise’s impact. An official review by the engineering department confirmed the building’s compliance with construction permits, though a minor breach — being 10 centimeters too close to sanctioned limits — required immediate amendment.
Inside homes, noise levels recorded a tolerable 76 decibels, assuring compliance with the legal precedent of 115 decibels. Meanwhile, shooting range operators, still in a phase of restrictive operation, affirmed their commitment to completely resolving the acoustic dilemma. They projected a 90-day period dedicated to further ameliorations, underscoring their willingness to cooperate actively.
Pattaya City, in its quest for tranquility, pledged vigilant monitoring of the range’s progress, determined to safeguard the residents’ quality of life against disruption. Ensuring long-term peaceful coexistence stood as an aspirational goal, one that no publication of KhaoSod would see denied under their watchful eye.
The resolute stand of Deputy Mayor Boonsawat, coupled with the persistence of the city’s devoted residents, charts a compelling narrative amid Pattaya’s lively cadence. It remains a testament to the spirit of resolve and solidarity, prevailing in bringing harmony back to every street and home burdened by discord.
It’s about time something was done! People shouldn’t have to live with that racket.
Totally agree. Everyone deserves peace in their own home.
Exactly, and it’s not just about noise; it’s about respect for the community too.
But where else can people go for shooting? It’s not like they’re doing it in the residential area!
There’s a difference between having a shooting range and having it next to people’s homes.
I feel like noise pollution needs more legal enforcement. The laws seem too lenient in many places.
True, but then you have to balance business rights too. It’s not easy.
I get that, but when it affects mental health, as mentioned, it should be prioritized.
Noise levels under 115 decibels is still quite loud! Surprised that’s seen as legal.
Yeah, it does seem high. Maybe laws need to be updated considering modern standards.
Why did it take so long for action? Those residents have been suffering for ages!
Bureaucracy always slows things down. Until it’s a big enough public issue, things hardly move.
Sadly true. Hopefully, this sets a precedent for quicker action in the future.
I commend Deputy Mayor Boonsawat for taking action. It’s a step in the right direction.
Yes, but let’s see how effective these changes really are over time.
I think shooting ranges are essential for training. Can’t they find a middle ground?
Middle ground is key, but residents’ comfort should come first. Maybe tech solutions for noise?
Perhaps you’re right. Tech could innovate how ranges operate without disturbing the peace.
120 decibels internally is a risk, not just for residents but users too, isn’t it?
Exactly! There are health implications for everyone involved. Surprised it’s allowed.
Hopefully, it’s addressed in that 90-day improvement plan.
Props to the residents for sticking it out and making change happen.
It shows the power of community action. Hope other areas follow suit when needed.
How loud is too loud? We need standard measures everywhere!
Standardization would definitely help. Different places have different tolerances though.
True, but we’re talking health, not just preference.
Why don’t they move these ranges to less populated areas? Seems like an easy fix.
Residents could consider soundproofing their homes too while waiting for solutions.
Public health should come first. We are not in the Wild West anymore.
What about the financial loss for the range during shutdowns? They need compensation!
Businesses take risks. They should have ensured compliance from the start.
How was the range approved here in the first place with homes so close? Sounds fishy.
Might have been an error or oversight. These things happen when regulations aren’t strict.
Still, someone should have caught it. Hope stricter checks are in place now.
Could’ve been bribery involved too. You never know with these dodgy approvals.
You can’t please everyone but we can try harder. Good that they’re working towards peace.