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Water receding at MMA

- 1,500 hampers distributed to residents

Georgetown, GINA, February 9, 2006

Floodwater in the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary (MMA) areas is receding, as government and regional officials intensify efforts to drain the land.

During a visit to the affected communities on February 9, Head of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Chabilall Ramsarup, indicated that, “the water level in the MMA creeks is steadily decreasing, as the high intensity rainfall plaguing the area over the past several weeks, has abated.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Fisheries, Other Crops and Livestock, Satyadeow Sawh, distributed 1,500 dry food hampers to flood-affected MMA residents including farmers. The hampers, provided by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, was presented to the Minister at a handing-over ceremony on February 9.

Minister Sawh said that the Gordon Table shelter, located in the Mahaicony Creek, remains open pending further evaluation of the situation. He indicated however, that based on current conditions, a decision to close the shelter is likely to be made by Saturday.

Health teams which are still operational in the affected areas, have to date, reported that no major outbreak of waterborne diseases have been reported.

Flooding occurred in several communities in regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, following record breaking rainfall in the latter part of December, and during the month of January.

Government’s intervention resulted in ongoing efforts to drain flood affected areas, and provide relief to residents and farmers.

President Bharrat Jagdeo has since launched drainage and irrigation (D & I) projects in Regions 5 and 6, aimed at maintaining D & I structures, through the use of hundreds of residents in the respective areas.

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Venezuela's flood assistance here

Georgetown GINA February 09, 2006

A military aircraft from the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela landed today February 09 at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport with a quantity of supplies in support of Guyana’s appeal for international assistance to deal with the impact of the recent floods.

The items were received by Ms Annette Adonis logistics Officer at the Civil Defence Commission (CDC).

The Mahaica Mahaicony Abary and Pomeroon areas were declared disaster areas on January 28 following serious flooding caused by extensive rainfall.

While the situation in Pomeroon has since improved, it remains critical in the MMA. The Government of Guyana’s appeal sought assistance, financial or otherwise, for support to restore the livelihood of affected communities, the rehabilitation of drainage structures and to support urgent assistance with the implementation of the emergency disaster mitigation and prevention programme. The humanitarian aspect is being financed by government.

The supplies that arrived today are intended for the residents of Mahaica Mahaicony and Abary, who are seriously affected by the flood for a prolonged period.

Among the items received are quantities of long boots, garbage bins, disinfectants, toilet tissues and pampers.

The authorities in Venezuela will be conducting a screening mission looking at the four rivers identified for dredging to improve the drainage situation. Venezuela would also be providing equipment such as water, trucks, pumps, boats, engines and electrical generators to promote a return to sustainable livelihood in the affected communities in Guyana. These items will be delivered later.

Flood update - situation in disaster areas improving

Georgetown, GINA, February 5, 2006

The situation in the disaster areas; Pomeroon River and the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary Creeks (MMA) is improving.

Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam)Regional Chairman, of Region Two, Ali Baksh, said the water has receded completely in the Charity housing area, which was severely affected.

“The water level at the conservancy is at a fairly controllable level, there is no breaching or over topping at the conservancy, however, there is water on some farms in the upper and lower Pomeroon areas,” the Chairman said.

He said that the water levels at Capoey, Mashabo and Mainstay Lakes are also at controllable levels.

The Chairman also indicated that the two hydraulic excavators valued at $30M each promised to the region by President Bharrat Jagdeo on January 11, were delivered. These will be permanently stationed in the region to aid drainage and irrigation in both upper and lower Pomeroon.

“We are now waiting on the pontoon and a few more sunny days to commence work in the Pomeroon,” Baksh said.

Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice)Flooding continues in the creek areas and according to Head of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (ND&A), Ravi Naraine, “Government is doing all that is necessary, based on the request of the farmers, to put measures in place to ensure the water drains off the land quickly.”

East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC)At the EDWC, Overseeing Officer, Chagur Bhudu said that the Lama is at 58.10 GD; Mahaica 56.40 GD; Flag Staff 58.35 GD; and Land of Canaan 55.60 GD.

“There is no rainfall today; all the sluices towards Mahaica are closed,” Bhudu said.

He said the Maduni sluice was closed three days ago but the Land of Canaan and the Cunha sluices are in operation.

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Water receding in disaster areas, government’s interventions will continue - Minister Sawh

Georgetown , GINA, January 31, 2006

Minister of Agriculture (ag.) Satyadeow Sawh yesterday reported to the National Assembly that water has been receding in disaster areas - Pomeroon in Regions Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) and Mahaicony in Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice).

“In Region Two, water has receded but the Pomeroon River continues to overflow its banks. No breaches are reported in the Capeoy Lake or the Tapakuma Conservancy,” Minister Sawh reported.

He added that work continues to drain the water from the farmlands and the residential areas as pumps, sluices and kokers are fully operational.

“In Region Five, there is still extensive flooding, particularly in the Mahaica and Mahaicony areas, due to rainfall in the upper reaches and the release of water from the Maduni sluice and the East Demerara Water Conservancy,” he said.

The rise in water has flooded villages in West Coast Berbice as the Abary River overflows its banks.

However, he assured that the Mahaica, Mahaicony Abary (MMA) conservancy is intact with a G.D level of 64.5 and dropping.

The disaster areas have been inundated for a prolonged period and projections are that the situation will continue for the next few weeks.

Government has launched several interventions for affected residents. The Minister mentioned the distribution of wheat milling, molasses and veterinary supplies for livestock and financial assistance for rice and cash crop farmers.

The Minister observed that government’s humanitarian efforts will continue as the 2006 National Budget makes provisions for major drainage and irrigation projects using both local and foreign funding sources. He noted that the projects to be undertaken are based on the recommendations of the report of the Drainage and Irrigation Task Force set up following the January 2005 flood and the United Nations body Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) that conducted the assessment of the impact of the flood.

Minister Sawh told the House, “Many of their medium-term recommendations were not financed in 2005 and have contributed to the situation Guyana faces today.”

However, he noted that with the government declaring the two areas disaster areas, it has moved to launch an international appeal for assistance.

“The appeal established government’s insistence of its ability to handle comprehensively the acute disaster response activities while recognising government’s ability to adequately address the demand for resources to finance the return to sustainable livelihoods of affected households, and particularly, the execution of a programme of recovery that urgently addresses rehabilitation and maintenance of vital drainage structure and the dredging of four Rivers - the Pomeroon, Mahaica/Mahaicony and Abary.”

Minister Sawh said that Guyana will need significant and prompt support to give effect to such a comprehensive programme in the affected areas before the commencement of the 2006 May-June rain.

On January 28, government declared the Pomeroon and MMA disaster areas following widespread inundation that overwhelmed flood control mechanisms.

Most areas almost flood-free

• water continuously receding

Georgetown, GINA, January 30, 2006.

Favourable weather is contributing to continuous improvement of the situation in several flooded-affected regions, as some areas are almost free of flood water.

Regional Chairman of Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam), Ali Baksh today indicated that ‘fairly good’ weather is continuing and the situation is improving significantly.

He noted that there has been tremendous reduction in water levels at all flooded areas including Charity and Pomeroon. However, some sections along the Pomeroon River remain water-logged.

Baksh also said that additional pumps which were put in place have ceased operating since the water has withdrawn. Levels in the conservancies, lakes and drainage canals have also reduced.

The Regional Chairman pointed out that monitoring of the situation is ongoing.

With regard to Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), Regional Chairman Esau Dookie said the situation has improved considerably in all affected areas. There is currently no flooding in Canal Number 1 & 2 Polders and Met-en-Meer-Zorg, which were the most affected areas in the region.

Acting Regional Chairman of Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne), Kadim Bacchus reported that most areas that were previously affected are now almost flood-free including the hardest hit Number 19 Village, Corentyne.

Light to moderate showers are being experienced in the region while all pumps and sluices remain operable.

Bacchus said there have been reports that rice lands are water-logged along the areas from Don Robin to Susanna, Corentyne but the Regional Administration has responded, as engineers have been sent to conduct assessments.

In Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice), a report issued today by the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA) stated that there is currently no flooding in the residential areas of West Coast Berbice but, it is the riverain areas that remain critical although there has been a slight decrease in water levels.

Pumping is continuing in areas including Trafalgar, Belladrum and Little Abary while other drainage works are ongoing at Nos. 28 and 41 Villages and Lichfield.

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Technical teams assessing Spring Tide overtopping

Georgetown, GINA, January 30, 2006

Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Harry Narine Nawbatt has disclosed that technical teams have been dispatched to areas on the East Bank, West Bank and West Coast Demerara, to assess the situation following minor overtopping of the Demerara River, due to above normal Spring Tide today.

A number of areas have been affected, including, Patentia, Bellevue, and Vreed-en-Hoop on the West Bank Demerara, and Herstelling and Friendship on the East Bank Demerara.

Reports also indicate that some sections of the sea defence structure in the vicinity of Bellevue, have been breached.

The Minister added that additional emergency drainage works are expected to commence shortly to mitigate the situation.

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Ministers Rodrigues and Nokta conduct flood assessment in Region One

Georgetown, GINA, January 30, 2006.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs Carolyn Rodrigues following an on-site assessment of the flooding situation in Region One (Barima/Waini) has noted that most of the crops lost are residents’ staple diet.

The Minister, during a four-day visit to the region, met farmers along the Waini River-Kwebenna, Warapoka and Moruca, who have suffered losses due to the current rainy season which has resulted in flooding of mostly farmlands.

In the meantime, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Harripersaud Nokta who also traveled to the region, visited communities in the upper and lower Aruka, Barima and Kaituma Rivers.

Minister Rodrigues said the residents reported that the heavy rainfall which began in December 2005, severely affected their cultivation of peanuts and cash crops, especially cassava.

She pointed out that although the rains are continuing and some farms are under water, more damage is expected to occur when the weather breaks, as the cassava plants will most likely rot.

Residents requested that assistance be granted in the form of financial aid to help them replant their lands.

Minister Rodrigues told resident that the list of those affected will be included in a detailed report to be presented to Cabinet for possible government assistance.

Excessively heavy rainfall recently has resulted in flooding in a number of areas across the country and government has since declared Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) and catchment areas of the Pomeroon ‘disaster areas.’

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Drainage efforts effective in reducing flood water in Region Two

 Georgetown, GINA, January 26, 2006.

Interventions by government to relieve several flooded areas in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) are proving effective, as the water level has reduced significantly.

During an on-site assessment in the Region today, Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Harry Narine Nawbatt observed that several pumps were in operation, while other drainage and irrigation works were ongoing.

There are five mobile pumps operating in villages along the Essequibo Coast while another six tractor pumps are working to drain the Charity housing area, since this area is the most affected.

“The number of pumps that are working has resulted in a lot of water being removed from the land. I think the residents in the communities that we visited are aware of the government’s efforts to alleviate the situation. From all the persons I have spoken with, they are convinced that the large amount of rainfall that occurred yesterday and the previous night was responsible for the flooding that is taking place on the land, ” Minister Nawbatt said.

He noted that should the rainfall stop over the next 24 to 48 hours, there will be a great reduction of water particularly since the pumps are working continuously.

Minister Nawbatt noted that the water has risen in the Pomeroon River but there is nothing that can be done to drain this area.

Regional Chairman of Region Two, Ali Baksh said the rice lands are so far secured and it is only the cash crops that are affected. There are approximately 3500 acres of rice land currently under cultivation in the region.

He pointed out that the Pomeroon River remains most vulnerable since it is only gravity flows that can alleviate the flooding.

With regard to the conservancy, the Regional Chairman noted that the level is very high but all necessary measures are being taken to keep the situation under control.

“If we do have excessive rainfall it would pose some problem for us but we are trying our best during the period when the rain is not falling to have that controlled. What we observed for the past two months is that the intensity of the rain is very high and within a very few hours, there is a build-up of a very large amount of flood waters,” Baksh said.

Meanwhile, relief efforts are ongoing in the region, as several residents reported that they have received medical supplies.

Additionally, the distribution of relief cheques under the $70M financial package for Pomeroon farmers is ongoing.

Government is continuing to monitor the situation and provide the necessary relief measures.

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More kokers vandalised

Georgetown, GINA, January 26, 2006

Kokers in the backlands of Golden Grove, Nabaclis and Victoria villages, East Coast Demerara (ECD), have been reportedly vandalised, triggering a rise in the water level aback these villages.

According to Mohamed Ali, an official attached to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), ranks from the joint services today conducted an inspection of the areas, where it was discovered that three kokers, located between the Crown Dam and the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC), were damaged.

Ali indicated that the three kokers, which are not currently in use, were sealed pending repairs, slated to commence shortly.

The damage occurred over the last two days, and was detected after repeated efforts to drain the land proved futile.

“The water was not going down, so we decided to sweep the area in an attempt to find the source. It was then that we discovered that the kokers were vandalised,” Ali said.

The damage includes the destruction of the wooden doors, and the removal of material used to seal the koker.

Following similar acts of vandalism at Strathavon and Victoria, ECD, between January 20 and 21, the Guyana Police Force offered a reward of $1M for information leading to the arrest of person(s) responsible for the act.

Pumps were since re-deployed to these communities and the damage and breaches are being repaired.

The Coast Guard of the Guyana Defence Force was deployed and has since been patrolling the areas.

Meanwhile several residents in the area expressed disappointment with the Main Opposition People’s National Congress Reform’s attempts to make excuses for such illegal behaviour by unknown individuals.

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FLOOD UPDATE

Efforts intensify to drain

Georgetown, GINA, January 26, 2006

Reports from several areas currently experiencing flooding have indicated that intense rainfall is again being experienced, triggering increasing water levels.

Nevertheless, government continues to monitor the situation while providing all necessary relief particularly with respect to drain water.

Region Two:

• According to Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Harrinarine Nawbatt who visited the region today, water at Charity has receded significantly.
• At Pomeroon, the water is still high but 11 pumps are in operation.
• There is no overtopping of the conservancy although the water is high.

Region Three:

• Regional Vice Chairman, Ramenauth Bisram today indicated that the water has receded from Canal No. 1 and 2 Polders, West Bank Demerara.
• The Boerasirie Conservancy is at a threatening level of 62.15GD but there is no overtopping.
• The situation continues to be closely monitored.
• There are reported cases of vandalisms on the C-Line dam in Canal No.2 Polder. The Regional Administration is calling for this to be stopped.
• At Meten-Meer-Zorg the water has since receded as a result of the continuous pumping.

Region Four:

• According to Chief Executive Officer of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (ND&IA) Ravi Naraine, water is receding in Victoria and Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara.
• Clearing of the Golden Grove outfall is 50 percent complete.
• The Conservancy and the Lama Sluice measured 58.1 GD while the Land of Canaan sluice recorded 55.8GD. no threat is posed at this time.
• There continues to be heavy rainfall in the Region.

Region Five

• According to Regional Chairman of Region Five, Harrinarine Baldeo, water is receding in some villages along the coast.
• There continues to be heavy rainfall in the region resulting in the rise in water levels in the riverain areas of Mahaica/Mahaicony and Abary.
• However, several pumps are in operation to drain the water from the low lying villages.

Region Six

• Acting Regional Chairman of Region Six, Kadim Bacchus today reported that water has receded significantly in Nos. 28, 29 and 30 villages on the Corentyne Coast.
• However, there is still some flood waters in Nos. 19 and No. 43 to Killturn villages.
• There continues to be heavy rainfall in the region as well
• Two pumps are working continuously.

Heath Issues

• The Ministry of Health has deployed several health teams to Regions Two, Five and Six to monitor reported cases of skin rashes and diarrohea.
• Many of these teams are stationed in the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary areas serving in various health shelters.
• The Ministry of health is advising persons to take precautionary measures to prevent water-borne diseases.

These basic measures include staying away from flood waters, washing with chlorine treated water, using protective footwear and taking doxycycline.

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FLOOD UPDATE: situation stabilises in some regions, others still critical

• Army involvement intensifies

Georgetown , GINA, January 25, 2006

Almost six weeks after the flood started, the situation still looks bleak in some affected areas, but has shown positive signs in others.

At his weekly post-Cabinet media briefing held at the Office of the President today, Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon gave the media an update on the flood situation.

Excessive rainfall and vandalism in some cases have resulted in widespread flooding in Regions One – Six to farmlands and residential areas. This has seen farmers and households suffering many losses despite government’s delivery assistance both financial and otherwise.

Here is a recap of that briefing as per affected region.

Region One

There are new reports of flooding in the Mabaruma Settlement and other parts of the sub-region, which are being assessed at present.

Region Two

Flooding, reported in the Pomeroon River communities, has now stabilised. However, the water levels of the rivers and lakes remain high.

Region Three

The Boerasirie Conservancy is functioning well and the level is being maintained by discharging the water into the Demerara and Essequibo Rivers.

Region Four

Flooding in the villages east of Enmore to Greenfield was “exacerbated by vandalism of drainage irrigation and flood control structures. Interventions are being intensified and the situation is slowly returning to baseline,” Dr. Luncheon said.

Region Five

Extensive flooding continues in the Mahaica, Mahiacony and Abary Creeks. In West Berbice, interventions have led to falling water levels in the residential areas. “The situation there is depressing,” Dr. Luncheon said, as flood waters remain high in some of the areas.

Region Six

Some flooding is still evident on the front lands as intervention continues in the Black Bush Polder areas.

“The impact overall is significant with households, traditional agricultural, cash crops and cattle farmers suffering the most,” Dr. Luncheon said

Outlining Government’s interventions, Dr. Luncheon said these include more shelters being established. There are now seven established shelters housing about 600 persons. Two of

the shelters are operational in Mahaicony Creek, three in West Coast Berbice and one in Mahaica Creek.

“Medical teams have been mobilised and fully assigned to Pomeroon, Canal Polder, Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary and the Black Bush Polders. Water distribution is organised to provide potable water, disinfectant kits and black tank storage,” the HPS added.

Meanwhile, he said that the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) continues to oversee the reporting of developments in the flood affected Regions and continues to host information briefings with non-governmental organisations, political parties and the media.

“Joint Services involvement has become more pronounced with GDF deployment at the seven shelters established and on patrolling duties on the Crown dam,’ Dr. Luncheon said.

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Drainage work ongoing in East Coast villages

- water receding

Georgetown, GINA, January 25, 2006

Floodwater in several low lying villages on the East Coast Demerara, Region Four is receding as a result of the ongoing drainage work being undertaken by government.

Today, Minister of Housing and Water Shaik Baksh and Public Service Minister Dr. Jennifer Westford accompanied by Commissioner of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Robeson Benn visited several villages along the Coast to assess the situation.

Residents attributed the receding water levels to the continuous operation of the Golden Grove pump and the clearing of the outfall which is being done under the supervision of the Chief Executive Officer of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Ravi Naraine.

Naraine, who was also present at the Golden Grove pump station, said work started a few days ago and since then, there has been tremendous improvement in draining the water.

The pump will also drain the neighbouring villages of Nabaclis, Belfield, Victoria and Haslington. Naraine said that he has received reports of flooding in Meten-Meer-Zorg, West Coast Demerara and a pump has since been deployed to the area. However, “a few more pumps will be brought into the Golden Grove area so that the area can be drained quickly.”

While interacting with residents of Supply Mahaica, Minister Baksh said that government is at this time, trying its best to get the water off the land.

“We know what the situation is countrywide and we are trying our best to help. All we are asking is that you cooperate with the mechanisms are being put in place,” the Minister said.

Residents expressed their disgust with the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) non-responsiveness to their concerns adding that the clogged drainage canal contributors to the flooding. Minister Baksh promised to raise the issue with the NDIA.

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Efforts to drain water intensifies

• Water receding in some areas

Georgetown, GINA, January 25, 2006

Reports from several areas currently experiencing flooding have indicated that intense rainfall has started again triggering increasing water levels.

Nevertheless, government continues to monitor the situation while providing all necessary relief efforts, particularly intervention to get the water off the land.

Region Two:

• Regional Chairman of Region Two, Ali Baksh reported that the water has risen in the Pomeroon River while the Charity housing scheme is again flooded. The Charity market area is also affected.
• Six pumps are currently operating at Charity
• There is minor overtopping at sections of the main conservancy
• Drainage works are ongoing in areas such as Charity, New Road and Riverstown
• The heavy rainfall is continuing

Region Three:

• Chief Executive Officer of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Ravi Naraine indicated that the most affected area is Meet-en-Meer-Zorg
• A mobile pump was deployed to the area today
• Drainage works are ongoing in Canals Number 1 and 2 Polders
• Minister within the Ministry of Labour, Human Service and Social Security, Bibi Shadick is expected to visit Leguan island tomorrow to check on the situation there

Region Four:

• The water level has been reduced in Victoria, Golden Grove and Haslington, East Coast Demerara
• The pump at Golden Grove is continuously operating
• The outfall channel at Golden Grove is currently being cleared
• Housing and Water Minister Shaik Baksh and Public Service Minister Dr. Jennifer Westford were in these areas today assessing the situation
• Naraine said additional pumps are to be installed at Nabaclis, Belfield, Victoria and Haslington
• Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Clinton Collymore today visited Belmont, Supply and other surrounding communities in Mahaica

Region Five

• The Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA) reported that the water has drained off from Nos. 28, 29 and 30 villages
• There has been no rise in the water level in the riverain areas over the past three days
• Pumps are operable at Trafalgar and Belladrum
• Mechanical clearing of drains between Lichfield to Seafield and from Golden Fleece to Profit is ongoing
• Pumping is ongoing at Little Abary
• A team of officials from the People’s Progressive Party (PP/C) visited several West Coast Berbice villages including Belladrum, Lichfield and Bath Settlement
• Residents reported that the water was draining off the land in these areas
• Relief efforts are ongoing

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January 20, 2006

Broken koker door causes minor flooding in Golden Grove, East Coast

• Minister Baksh

 
Minister Baksh discusses additional flood prevention measures with an East Coast resident

Georgetown, GINA, January 20, 2006

Flooding on the East Coast Demerara today led to a quick visit by government officials.

Minister of Housing and Water Shaik Baksh visited several areas on the East Coast including Bareroot, Paradise South, Dazelle Housing Scheme, Foulis, Nabaclis, Cove and John, Golden Grove and Haslington to take a first hand look at the situation.

According to the Minister, the situation in Paradise South is normal, but the areas of concerns are Nabaclis South, Deep South and over the railway embankment into the Dazelle Housing Scheme where there is water on the land.

Minister Baksh said that in Golden Grove there is some accumulation of water caused by heavy rainfall but the situation has been aggravated by a broken koker door in the savannahs aback of the village.

He explained that discussions were held with Neighbourhood Democratic Council officials and the overseer, for remedial works to be done on the door, to bring relief to the affected residents.

Minister Baksh said too, that he promised to assist the officials when he returns to the area tomorrow, January 21.

“Remedial action will be taken early in the morning to restore the gate at the Golden Grove koker,” Minister Baksh said.

The Housing Minister said that residents are calling for potable water and the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) will be requested to take some into the area tomorrow.

He noted too, that residents of Golden Grove complained of the clogged sluices which need to be desilted.

“I already spoke to Chief Executive Officer of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, Ravi Naraine and he promised to the visit area and have them cleared.”

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Protest prevent Belladrum and other areas from receiving assistance

Georgetown, GINA, January 20, 2006.

The organised protest staged by some residents of West Coast Berbice communities, Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) over the flooding situation has stalled the cheque distribution to rice-affected farmers.

This assistance is part of the $400M financial package to rice farmers across the country that was allocated by President Bharrat Jagdeo.

Some 385 cheques were to be distributed today to Region Five of which 300 were for farmers in areas including Belladrum, Paradise, Lichfield, Golden Fleece, Golden Grove and Number 28 and 42.

Chairman of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Nigel Dharamlall noted that the distribution will now be undertaken on Monday at which time the agency will meet farmers. The meeting scheduled for today had to be postponed until Monday also.

“We would like to appeal to our farmers that we are working in their best interest and ask them to encourage their fellow villagers not to engage in those activities which will preclude them from getting the necessary support that they so deserve,” he said.

The distribution will continue in other areas such as Regions Two and Three over the next week.

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January 19, 2006

Criticisms about government’s preparedness not fair – Ramsammy

• no major flood in City, ECD evidenceofimproved drainage

Georgetown , GINA, January 19, 2006

The National Assembly this afternoon was interrupted to facilitate a motion by the Opposition Leader Robert Corbin for a debate on the present flooding in some Regions caused by the prevailing heavy rainfall.

The Opposition is claiming that the Government has not been prepared for the present rainy season. However, Minister of Agriculture (ag.) Satyadeow Sawh in a report to the National Assembly earlier during the Sitting outlined extensively, measures that were and are being undertaken to prevent a repetition of the January 2005 natural disaster.

Among measures taken was the establishment of a National Task Force on Drainage and Irrigation comprising technical experts, and international consultants.

This body, during 2005 expended $952M on a number of projects in several vulnerable areas. Among these were:

Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam)

• Rehabilitation of sluice at Groyne at Lima Outfall Channel
• The construction of a relief structure at Goed Hope Main Canal
• Construction of retaining wall at Ituribisi Conservancy
• Raising embankment at Capoey Relief Creek

Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara)

• Repairs to sluice at Parika outfall
• Rehabilitation of channels and structures in Canal No. 1 and 2, Patosie, Leonora and Naamyrck
• Revetment works at La Grange koker, Vergenoegen, Barnwell and Hague/Jibb

Region Four (Demerara/Mahaica)

• Rehabilitation of Kofi canal and sluice
• Dredging and embankment works on the East Demerara Water Conservancy
• Relief works on Cunha head regulator and excavation of Cunha channel
• Construction of access road to Flagstaff
• Rehabilitation of sluices at Beehive, Beterverwagting, Hope, Belfield, Buxton, Golden Grove ad Victoria
• Rehabilitation of drains within Mahaica to Plaisance
• Evacuation of Shanks canal and raising embankment
• Rehabilitation of sluices and clearing of channels in Friendship, East Bank Demerara
• Raising of Crown dam from Two Friends to Haslington

Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice)

• Extension of Perth/Biaboo main canal and drainage and irrigation works in the Mahaica/Mahaicony rice area.

According to Minister Sawh, contrary to what Corbin is alleging, that the government has only began responding to flood communities early this month, a number of projects have been ongoing since December 2005. Among these are widening of relief channel at Goed Hope to Supenaam, desilting Sommerset and Berks, Unu Creek and Mainstay relief, construction of relief structures at Mainstay, and construction and revetment at Capoey in Region Two.

In Region Three the main channels at Canal Number 1 and 2 Polders have been cleared.

In Region Four, works include construction and rehabilitation of sluice at Ann’s Grove, raising the Lamaha canal embankment, rehabilitation of Golden Grove and Nabaclis East and West sidelines, Ann’s Grove middlewalk and Victoria sideline revetment works at Crown dam at Haslington, Enmore and Nabaclis and cleaning of drains within the Mahaica and Plaisance areas. Work on the embankment of the EDWC are also being carried out.

In Region Five, works being undertaken include construction of drainage culvert at Perth village, Mortice, Mahaicony and construction of revetment and raising of embankment at Perth/ Biaboo.

Minister Sawh pointed out that these measures that have been put in place have resulted in no major flooding on the East Coast of Demerara and in the City.

Corbin also criticised the government’s financial assistance package calling it compensation. However, Minister Sawh reiterated that the government is only assisting affected farmers “to get back on their feet.”

Minister Ramsammy shared his view emphasising, “We understand our ability to compensate and we would be lying to our Guyanese brothers and sisters if we told them that and we are not in a position to do that.”

He noted that while the government has not been able to perfect the drainage system, it has been tremendously improved.

“Had we not done what we did to prepare the country we would have been in a dire state today,” he told the National Assembly.

The Minister commended the staff in the health sector who have been attending to flood-affected persons, resulting in few cases of waterborne diseases.

The accountability of the flood interventions have also been questioned by the Opposition, and Minister Ramsammy responded that the Government has always
subjected its expenditures to the auditing framework (the Auditor General) of the country and that the National Assembly approves all supplementary budgets.

Meanwhile, Minister Sawh clearing the air on insinuations by Corbin that there has been “disparity in the treatment by the administration,” said that the government’s assistance is based on an assessment and the most affected areas are given priority.

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Assistance for West Berbice residents

- Shelter to be setup, pumps installed

Georgetown, GINA, January 19, 2006

Flood water has risen in Region Five, affecting some West Coast Berbice communities and government has moved to provide assistance to those affected.

To ease the plight of residents, government will set up a shelter at Belladrum and transport three pumps from the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) which are to be set up at critical areas to ensure the outflow of water, within 24 hours. This was disclosed by Head of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) Col. (rtd.) Chabilall Ramsarup.

Today, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds interacted with residents of Belladrum who were calling for additional assistance from government. They also blocked the main road, which has since been cleared and traffic is moving smoothly.

The Prime Minister assured them that their concerns will be addressed.

The Prime Minister had earlier in the week visited Belladrum and other communities in the Region, and assessed the situation. Following the rise in water level, other assessments will be conducted in the affected communities to appraise residents’ losses.

Health

The health response was strengthened with more teams sent into Region Five communities severely affected by the flood. This measure is in addition to the daily visits of the medical teams in the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary Rivers.

According to the Regional Health Services Department of the Ministry, teams were dispatched to the following areas: Bath Settlement- at the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) health centre, Hopetown- at the West Berbice Youth Association Building and at the Britannia health centre.

Teams comprising medexes and public health nurses were also sent to Belladrum, Number 28 and Waterloo villages.

Drainage and irrigation

All coastal areas drain into the façade drain which empties through sluices at D’Edward – (Three doors), Trafalgar (Two doors) and Profit (Two doors).

All sluices are working at full capacity. The sea defence contractor was instructed to open the dam to facilitate drainage to Profit. This was completed two days ago.

Two pumps are installed at Trafalgar to augment drainage during the tide-locked period.

Chairman of the Mahaica Mahaicony Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA), Rudolph Gajraj, said the residents’ action prevented drainage personnel from taking fuel to the pumps.

The Abary river is overflowing its right bank throughout, and from Belladrum, where the MMA main canal ends, to Profit going west, the river water is entering into the residential areas of those villages, Gajraj said.

An excavator has been deployed to construct an embankment at El Dorado to stop these inflows while another is in the process of being moved to the site.

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Excavators here for drainage works

• Flood situation worsens – Dr. Luncheon

Georgetown, GINA, January 19, 2006

Even as the flood situation worsens with rising water levels at most of the flooded areas in the country and government steps up its interventions, machinery have arrived in the country to boost drainage works.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon today disclosed that 12 of the excavators being purchased by Government are here and after the necessary checks would be deployed across the country. Earlier in the month, President Bharrat Jagdeo announced that $500M will be spent on procuring machinery to empolder various areas and improve the drainage systems.

These excavators will be assigned to specific areas to execute these works. During a visit to Pomeroon on January 11, the President disclosed that one each will be sent to upper and lower Pomeroon.

Guyana has been experiencing short periods of extensive rainfall, which have resulted in widespread flooding in many areas, including Pomeroon, Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary, Black Bush Polder and the Canal Polders and the situation “has been significantly worsening.”

The deluge has overwhelmed the capacity to store or discharge water through the various channels.

“The main Rivers are flooded for various lengths along their course to the sea. Backlands are inundated and flooding is spreading to front lands. Government interventions have been in the humanitarian sector and in response to technical considerations,” the HPS said.

He disclosed that more than 3,500 households have been assisted at a cost of $200M, while the technical interventions have seen short-term measures to ensure run-off of flood water and medium term-measure, including “the procurement of a large fleet of earth moving equipment.”

“In Region Three, heavy-duty earth moving equipment is also being provided on a permanent basis. This facility will eventually complement drainage works currently being done in the Canal Polders by the Regional Administration.

In Region Five, earth-moving equipment being acquired will also be permanently allocated to the Region along with those to be acquired through the Italian line of credit (US$4M) intended for MMA. In Region Six, components of the heavy-duty earth moving equipment being acquired will also be permanently allocated to the Region,” Dr. Luncheon said.

Commenting on the humanitarian response Dr. Luncheon noted that financial support has been provided to about 1400 affected households in the riverain communities at an approximate cost of $70M.

In Region Three, the Canal Polders, predominantly cash crop areas, financial support was given to about 800 affected farmers costing $40M.

The Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary areas were initially affected, hut their situation was compounded when the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority took a decision to blow water from the East Demerara Water Conservancy through the Maduni Sluice into the Mahaica area. In these creeks, about 900 cash crop and cattle farmers have been provided with financial support, as well as cattle feed and other veterinary goods intervention at a cost of about $73M.

“The rice farmers there were provided with an augmented package compared to the rice farmers from other non-flood affected areas,” Dr. Luncheon explained. Government had originally announced $5,000 grant for each rice farmer, up to a maximum of 20 acres. However, this sum was doubled for those rice farmers who are affected in this area. Primarily farmers from Black Bush Polder and the MMA will receive this enhanced package.

In the Amerindian Heritage village of 2005, Moraikobai, flood relief has already been provided to about 174 affected households at a cost of about $4M. Moraikobai is one of the areas that is experiencing the deluge.

The financial aid in Region Six has been provided to about 750 affected farmers, costing $37M.

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Special medical outreach programme for East Coast

Georgetown GINA, 19, 2006

A special medical outreach programme initiated by government, will on Sunday, January 22, be extended to residents of some East Coast Demerara communities.

The team will include Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Roger Luncheon, Minister of Health Dr. Leslie Ramsammy and Director of Regional Health Services, Ministry of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsarran.

The team will be at the Ann’s Grove Community High School from 9:00 hrs to extend services to residents of Dochfour, Clonbrook and Ann’s Grove.

Following more rainfall over the past few days the government increased medical teams to flood –affected areas.

Yesterday more teams were dispatched to Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) to areas such as Bath- Settlement, Hopetown and Britannia. This is in addition to the other teams already out in the areas.

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January 18, 2006

Preparatory drainage works averted major flood disaster – President Jagdeo

Georgetown, GINA, January 18, 2006

Following the January 2005 flood disaster, extensive works and preventative measures were undertaken to boost the drainage system. This has significantly contributed to a major flood disaster being averted, in wake of recent high intensity rainfall over the last several weeks.

President Bharrat Jagdeo made these remarks today at State House, where he updated the media on the flood situation in several communities along the coastland, and government’s interventions to intensify efforts to drain the land.

Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam)

During a visit to Pomeroon on January 11, the Head of State indicated that the water level was receding in most of the affected areas. However, high intensity rainfall last weekend has resulted in the water rising even higher.

“Over the weekend we had extremely intensive rainfall especially in the interior areas. This caused problems in the Capoey and Mashabo areas which led to an overflow of the dam there.”

The Charity area has flooded once again and the level of the Pomeroon River has risen. Several coastal villages and low-lying areas have been affected.

The Lima, Anna Regina and Pomona Housing Schemes have been adversely affected as the water level continued to rise.

The President lauded the efforts of the farmers who participated in work toward assisting to drain flood water.

Minister of Foreign Trade and International Cooperation Clement Rohee who was dispatched by Head of State to the area, has been there over the past two days where assessment of the situation is ongoing.

Five pumps are now operational in Charity to drain the area; however, while the water level has receded in several coastal areas, it is still high in the Pomeroon, Charity and some other locations on the Essequibo Coast.

Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara)

President Jagdeo said Ministerin the Ministry of Human Services Bibi Shadick during her visits to the affected areas noted that the situation in Wakenaam, one of the islands at the mouth of the Essequibo River is not critical and the current rice crop has not been significantly affected; however, the situation in central Leguan has worsened.

“The Minister is scheduled to revisit the area and additional support will be provided to the NDC there.”

The water level is still very high in Canal No. 1 and 2 Polders although a channel has been opened in Canal No. 2 enabling water to flow to the sea.

‘In No 1 (Canal) and parts of No 2, the water is very high and they have an additional complication now because some of the water is coming from the Clay Brick area.”

The Regional Administration has since briefed the President on remedial measures that they hope to take to reduce the water.

The President noted that a large percentage of the coastland is below sea level; as such it is susceptible to flooding. He said assistance will be rendered primarily to areas severely affected.

“I want you to understand that many other areas outside of the areas that are mentioned had water, but I am not going to deal with areas that had maybe two days of water.”

Region Four (Demerara/Mahaica)

There is some water is backlands of Victoria, Buxton and other areas.

“We anticipate that with one or two days of sunshine and tides flowing that the water should flow off the land,” the President said.

He said from reports received from Ministers Anthony Xavier and Manzoor Nadir, it was noted that there was water in North, South and West Ruimveldt areas but, that the water receded quickly. However, in some parts of these areas the water is moving very slowly because the internal drains are not in good order.

“In Sophia we had to do some remedial work in ‘D’ field which led to the draining of the area, Cummings Lodge moved of quickly too, because of the work we did in Region Four. While we had some areas under water because of the work that was done we have managed to get the water down to where it was manageable.”

“The big threat to Region Four and Five was the EDWC; if action was not taken it would have led to serious problems.” On January 16, the D&I Authority took the decision to blow the Maduni sluice at the EDWC, to relieve the threat to the dam as a result of increasing water level.

The water level has come down from 58.55GD to 58.35; the President said, and noted that if it goes down to 58 GD, then the Maduni sluice can be closed.

“Had we not done the work we did over the past year, that is to take a lot of the water into the Demerara River, then with these levels of rainfall we would have had to release water earlier, but because most of the water was chanelled out….the decision had to be taken.”

A present there are 200 workers working on the EDWC, along with machinery and 20,000 clay bags being laid to fortify it.

Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice)

“This region is in serious crisis, especially in the riverain areas. Coastal areas have some flooding but the water has receded in many parts.”

The Head of State said the water level in Mahaica remains constant but rose a bit in the Abary and Mahaicony creeks. He said that it is anticipated that it will remain there for sometime.

He indicated that centers have been set up in the Mahaica and Mahaicony areas as well as a smaller unit in the Abary area. The personnel in charge of them have been meeting with the people, they have provided pontoons to move the cattle, feed for them and are trying to get more feed into the area. He said that lots of cattle died in the Abary Creek.

“We are faced with serious situation because we don’t have enough feed and the animals are wild in many cases.”

Asked about the importation of feed, he said that the time the feed would take to reach Guyana, may not be practical, but he did not rule out the possibility.

There are medical teams in the areas, he explained while noting that no major flood- related diseases have been reported.

In the Mahaica area, they are preparing the Biabu School in the event that people want to evacuate in the Mahaicony area while the Gordon Table School is being looked at. He said about 27 persons would have to be moved from the Mahaicony area.

Excavators are being used in the Mahaicony area in an effort to save rice fields.

He explained that there were some problems in West Berbice at Belladrum, Rising Sun, Experiment, Bath, Waterloo, and Number 28 -30 villages and government would be sending in some equipment. Additionally, a pump is to be installed today at Onverwagt.

Government will be monitoring these areas, he said.

Region Six ( East Berbice /Corentyne)

President Bharrat Jagdeo told the media he was in the Region in the communities of Cane field, Fort Ordnance, Fyrish, Gibraltar, Number 19, Whim, and Nigg which are all affected by the flood.

“Minister Nawbatt is in the Region monitoring the situation, If there was timely management they would not have been affected to that extent. We are sending medical teams to those areas,” he said

“We hope that we can continue to have fair weather, for if we do, then we can get out of this situation.”

Meanwhile, in response to a question from the media with regard to the real reason why ministers are going out in the field, bringing into question whether the regional people are incompetent, the Head of State, said ministers of his government have to take a proactive approach to the situation.

“They have to be out there when we have problems. They are in regular contact with their peers, enabling decisions to be fast-tracked. Having my Ministers in the field brings the collective power of the State to citizens’ assistance,” the President said.

Noting that flooding is inevitable and is being fuelled by climate change, among other factors, the President said that short term measures such as improving the storage capacity of the conservancy, keeping the drainage system clear, and returning to the system of draining the land via kokers would have to be instituted.

He noted that long- term measures such as initiating the second phase of the Mahaica Mahaicony Abary Development Authority (MMA/ADA) scheme would cost in excess of US$40M.

“At this point in time it is difficult for us to raise that money, so in the short- term we have to do some remedial work,” the Head of State said.

Empoldering is also an effective method of protecting farmlands against flooding. This technique, the President said is currently being practised by several farmers in the Mahaicony River.

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Surveillance teams working in flood hit communities, more health teams fan out

Georgetown , GINA, January 18, 2006

A number of surveillance teams are currently involved in collecting and relaying information to the Ministry of Health, to inform responses to the medical situation in flood-affected communities.

Minister of Health Dr. Leslie Ramsammy said that the Public Health epidemiologists are gathering information from health teams in several areas to determine what health situation may be emerging, and based on this information, the Ministry will determine what additional response is needed.

He said laboratory teams are also out in the areas collecting specimens of water and faeces for testing.

“So far, in terms of this year’s flood situation thus far, we have not seen anything to cause us undue alarm, we have not seen a significant increase of flood-related diseases, but we continue to monitor the situation and will continue to provide support,” Minister Ramsammy said.

So far mostly cases of itching and rashes have been reported, according to Minister Ramsammy, and from November last only five cases of leptospirosis have been detected. These are being treated.

The health response was strengthened today with more teams sent into Region Five communities severely affected by the flood. This measure is in addition to the daily visits of the medical teams in the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary Rivers.

According to the Regional Health Services Department of the Ministry, teams have been dispatched to the following areas: Bath Settlement- at the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) health centre, Hopetown- at the West Berbice Youth Association Building and at the Britannia health centre.

Teams comprising medexes and public health nurses were also sent to Belladrum, Number 28 and Waterloo villages West Berbice, Sandvoort and Bohemia in Region Six and to Pomeroon, Region Two and Canal Number 2 Polder, Region Three.

In other affected areas where there are health centres, these are providing services to residents.

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Flood update:

Georgetown, GINA, January 18, 2006

As Government continues to monitor the flood situation around the country, Ministers are presently in various regions to do on-the-spot checks and to oversee relief efforts.

The National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) report issued today stated that there are reports of flooding in Regions 1,2,3,4,5 and 6 as well as reports of high waters in some areas in Region Four. All pumps and sluices continue to operate.

This report was issued by the D&I Authority today:

• Flooding continues within the upper reaches of the Mahaica and Mahaicony Creek as well within De-Hoop
• The Mahaica,Mahaicony,Abary/Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA) is monitoring the situation within the Mahaicony Creek and undertaking necessary works.

Region One

• According to the Regional Information Officer of Region One (Barima/Waini), Jude Hernandez, for the past three weeks, the Region has been experiencing some exceptionally heavy rainfall daily
• Following inspections by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC),most of the farms in low-lying areas were under
• Creole poultry farmers have also suffered losses
• Responding to the situation, a team, comprising Regional Vice-Chairman, Fermin Singh, Agriculture Field Assistant, Charles Romascindo, Community Development Officer, Victor Boyer and Livestock Assistant, Anthony Robinson visited a number of farms in the low lying riverain areas of the Barima, Kaituma, Aruka, Waini, and Koraibo rivers recently, in order to have a first-hand assessment of what damages may have been caused by the excessive rainfall on farms.
• Rains continue persistently

Region Two

• In the Pomeroon River, Charity housing area, Anna Regina, Perseverance and low areas along the Essequibo Coast, there are reports of high waters especially in Westbury, Somerset, Dartmouth and Perseverance. The main canal is overtopping along with the Capoey conservancy.

All sluices are said to be ‘ok’ and are operating with the water from the main canal being discharged at Uno Creek, Somerset and Berks.

There is overtopping along low areas of the Golden Fleece conservancy as well as the low areas of the main canal embankment

The Regional Democratic Council (RDC) is to undertake works on the Capoey embankment while water will be discharged from the Ituribisi conservancy through Riverstown Relief, South Head through Supenaam River. There is to also be the raising of the Capoey Conservancy embankment

Region Three

• There are reports of flooding in Canal Number One and Two Polders, with high waters in the Polders, Pouderoyen, Parfait Harmonie and Dorn Hogg, Leguan Island
• All sluices and pumps are operating with mechanical cleaning of the main canals of Canal No. 1 and 2 in progress and other necessary drainage works ongoing at Canal No. 2-Belle West, Resource and Middlesex and at Canal No. 1 –L’Esperance and Orange Field.
• A pump has been installed at Dorn Hogg, Leguan Island and is operating

Region Four

• There are reports of flooding at Craig and Friendship backlands with further reports of high waters on the East Coast Demerara backlands area, Two Friends- Ann’s Grove and Montrose, Goed Hope.
• There are two electrical pumps at Strathavon operating during the non sluicing period
• All sluices and outfalls are functioning

Region Five

• Reports of flooding in the upper reaches of the Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary Creeks with reports of high waters in Broomlands and Handsome Tree canal and low areas along the Coast
• All sluices and pumps are in operation
• The MMA installed a pump at Bellamy Canal (Abary End). This is in operation.
• The NDIA/ Region are working on check structures at Mortice and Sukdeo canals
• Pump to be placed at Onverwagt this afternoon
• Cleaning of drains and outlets at Belladrum, Ithaca, Cotton Tree, Bush Lot, Hamlet and Woodley Park to Bel Air has commenced

Region Six

• There are reports of flooding within the No.19 area, Whim, Fyrish, Gibraltar and low areas along the Coast with further reports of high waters in the No. 19 area, Yakusari, Johanna, 52-74 area and Port Mourant
• All sluices and pumps are in operation with an additional pump installed at Joppa by the RDC
• The RDC has undertaken cleaning of residential drains in Yakusari and Johanna and work is continuing
• Work has also been undertaken by the RDC on the No.43 Sluice
• A pump has been installed at Seawell
• Raising the embankment at No.19 ongoing

Region Ten

• There are no reports of flooding but reports of high waters at West Watooka and Wismar with minor erosion in Wismar.

Georgetown

• There are reports of flooding in sections of Queenstown and Sophia as well as reports of high waters within low areas of Sophia, Bourda and Queenstown
• The City Engineer’s Department reported that all pumps are in operation except the Kitty electrical pump and the Princess Street pump which are under repairs
• The D&I mobile pump at Liliendaal is functioning along with the mobile pump at Kitty

Guysuco

• There are reports of minor flooding in low sections of the Skeldon Estate with reports of high water within the backlands.
• All sluices and pumps are in operation.

East Demerara Water Conservancy

• The present level is 58.40 GD with an average dam level of 59.0 GD
• Water is being discharged into the Demerara river through the five door sluice at Land of Canaan and Kofi and into the Maduni Creek through the Maduni relief structure with two additional drainage pumps installed at Land of Canaan. These are operating.

The Boerasirie Water Conservancy

• The present level is 61.95 GD.
• Water is being discharged into the Essequibo River through the five-door sluice at Waramia, at Naamryck and at Potosi.

January 17, 2006

Priority is to get flood water off the land – President Jagdeo

-assesses several flood-hit areas in Region Six

Georgetown, GINA, January 17, 2006

Head of State, President Bharrat Jagdeo, after taking an aerial view of flood affected areas in Regions Five (Mahaica/Berbice) and Six (East Berbice/Corentyne) today, stressed that the immediate focus is to drain the water off the land.

The President flew over the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) where one of the sluices, Maduni, was opened to release water to ease the threat on the dam as a result of heavy and incessant rainfall. It was evident that the northern section of the dam was intact.

The President took the opportunity to assess flood-affected areas in Region Six, where he stopped briefly at several communities. His first stop was at Canefield New Housing Scheme, Canje where residents complained that due to the area being low-lying, the water is lodged on the land.

They recommended that the ‘Pepper’ sluice which is manned by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) should be fixed and the canal be dug.

“You need an independent way to drain off the land,” the President agreed, adding, “I will send in engineers from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority and ask GUYSUCO engineers to meet with residents and to see if it makes sense to dig a canal or operate the sluice. We will give you some help to build up the land,” the Head of State said.

With the budget presentation scheduled for January 23, money will be made available for Region Six to have four excavators.

“This will happen in less than a month and a half,” the President promised.

At Fort Ordnance residents informed the President that the water from the pasture is flowing into the housing scheme, which is flooding the community. They complained that the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) is not reporting the seriousness of the situation. As a temporary measure to ease the flooding, the President notified residents that the Region will pay for the four truckloads of sand and 200 bags that are needed to block the flow of water.

“I want the Region to intervene. Money is not an issue,” the President said.

One of the worst hit areas is the No. 19 Village, due to fish farms overtopping. According to the Regional Chairman (ag) Kadim Bacchus some of the fish farms between Borlam and Industry have been abandoned and have accumulated water during the rainy season.

“The water is actually coming over to where the people are living and what the Region is doing is raise a dam to separate the two areas to prevent water from coming from the fish pond,” Bacchus explained to the President.

Additionally, there is a pump loaned to the Region by GUYSUCO at the Seawell sluice which is working simultaneously with the sluice in pumping the water. Another dam is being raised at the eastern Borlam end to prevent further flooding and a hymac is currently in the area excavating the outfall channel.

Residents of No.1 Village and Fyrish fear an outbreak of Leptospirosis, since there is a burial ground located at the backlands of No. 1 Village.

However, the President noted that doxycycline will be sent to the communities and urged that they be used to safeguard against the disease. During the 2005 floods, 30 persons succumbed to the water borne-disease.

“I will also send in a medical team in the area to conduct an outreach,” promised President Jagdeo.

“We have to look at these fish ponds; because we cannot have a few flood the communities. When this is over, we will have to review the situation and see if an independent drainage system may be the best solution. We have to get the water off the land,” President Jagdeo reiterated.

It was agreed at Nigg that a group from the community will meet with the President at a date to be scheduled to discusss their concerns.

Before departing the Region, the Head of State visited Whim, where there is flooding also.

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Pumps, monetary aid for Region Five residents and farmers

- Prime Minister Hinds

 
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds addresses concerns of Region Five who are currently experiencing floods as a result of excessive rainfall (Anil Ramlall Photo)

Georgetown, GINA January 17, 2006

Two mobile pumps are being stationed at Onverwagt village, Region Five (Mahaica /Berbice), to alleviate the effects of flooding which occurred recently as a result of excessive rainfall in the region.

One pump was deployed to the community earlier today and another in Georgetown is expected to be relocated to the area by tomorrow, to assist in draining the excess water from the area.

The decisions followed a visit earlier today to several Region Five communities by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds who also heads the National Flood Control and Prevention and Control Committee. Accompanying Prime Minister Hinds was head of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (ND&IA) Ravi Naraine earlier today.

Among the areas visited by the team were Onverwagt, Paradise, Belladrum and Number 28 village.

Following an assessment, the Prime Minister announced that “we will also try to make monetary flood aid available to the community by this Friday.”

A number of residents have recorded losses of livestock, rice and other cash crops.

Some of the residents have also reported an increase in cases of diarrhoea, which may be related to contamination of the water supply.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds collects reports from residents of region Five to compile a flood assistance package (Anil Ramlall Photo)

Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy who was also in the area, announced that “two medical teams will be deployed to the region tomorrow, to reinforce the efforts of local health workers.”

The Prime Minister noted, “government has been working towards the improvement of drainage facilities countrywide but the excessive rainfall has posed a serious problem.”

Residents also made a number of pleas to the Prime Minister, among which was the digging of canals leading from the riceland aback the villages.

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Shelter at Biaboo Government School to be established, farmers get feed for animals - Minister Westford visits communities in Mahaica Creek

Farmers of Little Baiboo, Mahaica Creek recieving animal feed

Georgetown, GINA, January 17, 2006

Public Service Minister, Dr. Jennifer Westford today revisited Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) to support flood-affected residents following the Drainage and Irrigation Task Force’s decision to open the Maduni sluice into the Mahaica River to relieve the pressure on the East Demerara Water Conservancy Dam.

The decision was taken at a special Cabinet meeting convened yesterday where Head of State, President Bharrat Jagdeo deployed a number of Ministers to flood-affected communities to undertake flood interventions and continued assessments of the situation on the ground.

“Today’s trip was successful, persons in the area are still a bit concerned about the flood situation, but not as worried as before,” Minister Westford said, commenting on her trip to the area.

The Minister who was accompanied by the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Jugool Narine and Regional Engineer, Tahal Dennis visited Little Biaboo, Joe Hook and several other communities in the Mahaica Creek where she distributed feed to farmers for their animals.

Minister of Public Service speaking with farmers of Little Baiboo

She said after consultations with farmers, “a decision was made to build high ground for farmers and for their animals,” to avoid massive losses in the event of flooding.

A decision was also taken to have a shelter established at the Biaboo Government School following an assessment of the situation.

“Farmers in the area were yesterday advised to move their animals to high ground which they did, and today they were pleased to receive the feed provided,” Minister Westford said.

The Public Service Minister is expected to return tomorrow to continue further assessments of the area and to assist with the distribution of animal feed.

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries Other Crops and Livestock, Satyadeow Sawh will also visit the Region tomorrow with health officials who will provide veterinary assistance.

Head of State, President Bharrat Jagdeo also undertook an aerial assessment of the situation in Region Six.

Other Ministers of Government were deployed to Regions Two, Three and Six to undertake flood assessments and relief interventions.

The Task Force’s decision was made in light of the severe pressure exerted on the water conservancy in light of heavy rainfall over the past week. This decision was made to avoid the breaching of the conservancy.

Government officials will continue to undertake assessments of the situation in various flood-affected areas with an aim to render as much assistance as possible to ease residents’ plight.

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President Jagdeo visit to Region six (January 17, 2006)

Photos provided by Sandra Prince, Office of the President)

An aerial view of the East Demerara Water Conservancy showing the nothern dam.

An aerial view of Mahaica/Mahaicony area

President Bharrat Jagdeo speaking with residents at Canefield new Housing Scheme, Canjie

Canefield new Housing Scheme, Canjie

President Bharrat Jagdeo making a point to a Canefield new Housing Scheme resident

President Bharrat Jagdeo at Fort Ordnance, Region 6

President Jagdeo at Fort Ordnance, Region 6

President Jagdeo at No. 9 village, where fish ponds are overtopping causing flooding in the residential area

President Jagdeo at No. 19 Village

President Jagdeo at No. 19 Village

President Jagdeo at No. 19 Village

President Jagdeo speaking to residents of No. 1 Village and Fyrish

President Jagdeo speaking to residents of No. 1 Village and Fyrish

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Government intensifies relief in Mahaica

- Minister Westford to return tomorrow

 
Minister of Public Works, Jennifer Westford, assesses flood situation in Mahaica, as Government interventions in flood-affected communities continues

Georgetown, GINA, January 16, 2005

Government has established a relief presence in Mahaica following the decision to release water from the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) through the Maduni sluice into the Mahaica Creek, thereby causing an increase in the level of flood water in both residential areas and farmlands.

Minister of Public Service, Jennifer Westford was today in Mahaica reassuring residents that government is trying its best to contain the flooding situation, since the release of water from the EDWC was unavoidable.

The Minister identified a few high grounds for farmers to transport their animals and made provisions for feed and other supplies.

There are about 3000 cattle in the area which are affected, and with the water expected to rise further, the need to move these animals will be more critical, the Minister noted.

Cash crop farmers in the Little Baiboo area have already lost some of their crops due to the incessant rainfall.

The residents requested that the dam across the Perth/Baiboo canal that drains water into the Mahaica River be removed.

In response, the Minister directed the Regional authorities to remove the dam. The engineer who was on site agreed to do so tomorrow.

This dam was constructed following lobbying efforts by rice farmers in the Mahaica River to prevent the excess flow of water into their lands as a result of the recent heavy rainfall.

While there the Minister explored measures to provide transportation for students as this may become difficult with continuing rainfall and increased water levels.

Residents confirmed that the level of water in the Mahaica Creek has been rising over the past few days as a result of heavy rainfall and has risen even more today.

Some farmers in the area suggested that there be more outlets established to drain water out of the EDWC.

Regional Chairman of Region Five, Harrinarine Baldeo who accompanied the minister indicated that there are longer-term plans to protect residents and farmers in the Little Baiboo area.

Minister Westford said that the release of water from the Maduni sluice will cease once the rainfall eases and the water in the EDWC drops to a controllable level.

There are also efforts to put measures in place to deal with concerns that will rise as the water takes time to exit the area when the sluice is closed.

Residents and farmers in the area were urged to mobilise resources to provide support for themselves with regard to taking care of their animals and reducing losses. To this end, Minister Westford committed to the service of some Guyana Defence Force (GDF) personnel to help in the area of construction of rafts using indigenous materials.

Following heavy flooding in the Mahaica/Mahaicony area in December, government provided pecuniary relief to rice, cash crop and livestock farmers based on an assessment conducted. This year, $50,000 was granted to cash crop and livestock farmers while every rice farmer that is affected would be granted $10,000 per acres up to a maximum of 20 acres.

A special meeting of Cabinet was convened by President Bharrat Jagdeo at State House this morning following intense and continuous rainfall during the past 48 hours. After this meeting several Ministers were assigned to the most affected areas for the next three days, given that the intense rainfall is expected to continue

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No unusual health reports so far- Minister Ramsammy

Georgetown, GINA, January 16, 2006

Teams of health personnel are continuing to focus attention on residents of flood-affected areas and have reported no unusual cases of illness.

Minister of Health Dr. Leslie Ramsammy said other teams are also on stand-by if the need arises.

Health teams are presently in Regions Two, Three, Five and Six, where the only reported cases thus far are skin rashes.

The Minister is urging citizens to take precautionary measures to reduce the risk of flood-related diseases.

Health safety tips for flood-affected residents

• Use only bottled or treated water for drinking purposes

• Treat water for domestic use with bleach, including for bathing, brushing teeth and cooking

• For domestic uses, add ¼ teaspoon of bleach to one bucket of water, ½ teaspoon to 5 gallons of water or 1 cup to 400 gallons of water

• Seek emergency medical attention at the necessary hospital or health centre for vomitting and diarrhoea, cuts or puncture wounds immediately

• Keep out of the flood water (children must not swim or play in flood water). Avoid walking without shoes in the floodwater (stay at home unless it is absolutely necessary to be elsewhere)

• Look out for centipedes, snakes and other poisonous pests seeking dry places

• As the water recedes, clean surroundings immediately with bleach, or other disinfectant

• When cleaning, use protective gear such as gloves and masks

• Sleep under a mosquito net

• Disconnect all electrical appliances, telephones and electrical points which can be affected by the excess water

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Cabinet emergency meeting discusses latest flood situation in light of rain

-       Section of East Demerara Water Conservancy to be blown temporarily

Georgetown, GINA, January 16, 2005

A special meeting of the Cabinet was convened by President Bharrat Jagdeo at State House this morning following intense and continuous rainfall during the past 48 hours.

Information Liaison to the President Robert Persaud said Cabinet was informed that the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) water will be released through the Maduni sluice later today to relieve the pressure on its dam following the recommendations of both local and international engineers.

Chief Executive Officer of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (ND&IA) Ravi Narine provided a report on the Conservancy and other important drainage structures.

Narine told Cabinet that the high water levels in the EDWC and the forecast of intense rain over the next few days leave no option but to blow the conservancy to avoid severe flooding on the coastland. The additional discomfort this will cause for Mahaica and Mahaicony communities was noted and there will be related interventions.

Cabinet also received reports from various Ministers who have been visiting the affected areas as well as the Head of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) Col. Chabilall Ramsaroop (rtd). Several Ministers were over the weekend dispatched by the Head of State to several of the flood hit and vulnerable areas.

Meanwhile, following Cabinet’s session, President Jagdeo assigned several Ministers to the most affected areas for the next three days given that the intense rainfall is expected to continue. The Ministers are dispatched in the following areas:

-          Region Six – Minister of Transport and Hydraulics Harry Narine Nawbatt

-          Mahaicony - Minister of Agriculture (ag) Fisheries, other Crops and Livestock Satyadeow Sawh

-          Mahaica – Minister of Public Service, Dr. Jennifer Westford

-          East Coast and East Bank Demerara and Georgetown – Minister of Health Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

-          East Coast Demerara and Georgetown – Minister of Housing and Water Shaik Baksh and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Anthony Xavier

-          Georgetown– Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Manzoor Nadir

-          Region Three - Minister of Home Affairs Gail Teixeira

-          Essequibo Islands, Region Three - Minister in the Ministry of Human Service and Social Security Bibi Shadick.

-          Region Two – Minister of Foreign Trade and International Cooperation, Clement Rohee

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Flood update

Georgetown , GINA, January 16, 2006

Farmers and residents in the Mahaica/Mahaicony communities are advised to take the necessary precautions as the D&I Authority has taken a decision to release water through the Maduni sluice. This unavoidable action is due to the threatening water level of the East Demerara Water Conservancy.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Drainage and Irrigation Authority, Ravi Naraine, today announced that though Government has implemented, as recommended by the task force engineers, both local and international, and has done all it could have done within a short period of time to ensure and enhance the flow of the conservancy water into the Demerara river, the above option has to be taken.

“Unfortunately at this point in time because of the rainfall we have experienced since November last year into January, it has overwhelmed the Conservancy discharge into the Demerara River. We have no other option now but to discharge water into the Maduni and we will be commencing that discharge later today.”

Naraine explained that as a result of excessive rainfall, especially in Regions Four and Five and in the hinterland areas adjoining these regions, the average level in the EDWC (the eastern section) towards the Mahaica River has increased. It was noted too, that more rainfall is expected over the next few days.

“The implication of that is though the Mahaica/Mahaicony is basically under flood now, it will increase some of the flood levels within the areas of the Mahaica/Mahaicony.

So, I am alerting farmers, I know that they are flooded and are experiencing a lot of hardship there, so try to understand that we need to discharge this water into the Maduni, especially to safeguard the East Coast and probably the Mahaica/Mahaicony because if we don’t do this, breaches may occur in the dam which we do not want to happen.

So I am appealing to the residents and the people of the Mahaica/Mahaicony to try to understand this decision that we have made which was based on technical information and advice that we got from the Task Force and this will also go a far way of ensuring that our embankment along the EDWC is safeguarded against any breach,” Naraine urged.

He noted that the closing of the Maduni sluice will be reviewed once the water level has dropped to about 58GD.

“It is unfortunate, but we need to make these decisions to safeguard the other areas, especially Region Four and the Mahaica/Mahaicony from further flooding which will be exacerbated by not opening the Maduni sluice, which may result in breaches in the Conservancy.”

The level recorded this morning is 58.55GD, and according to Naraine this (level) is quite high and would be threatening the embankment especially the section from Flagstaff to Nancy.

He added that works were completed especially the reactivation of the Cunha five-door-sluice and Kofi sluices last year January/February and that was implemented especially during the May-June rains 2005 and are currently operational.

Intense rainfall over the past few days has resulted in water level rising significantly in several areas.

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FLOOD UPDATE (2)

Georgetown, GINA, January 16, 2006 as at 16:15 hrs

Heavy rainfall experienced along the coastland over the weekend and early this morning has compounded the flooding situation in Regions Two, Three, Five and Six.

A National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) report for today indicated that all pumps and sluices are in operation.

Region Two

Pomeroon River

• Regional Chairman Region Two, Ali Baksh, has reported that the situation in the Pomeroon River is influenced by the tides as the water reduces when the tide is low but returns when it rises
• The Tapakuma Lake is overflowing into the Arapiako river which flows into the Pomeroon River
• There are reports of flooding in low-lying areas along the Essequibo Coast
• The Regional Chairman said there is overtopping of the conservancy
• There is overtopping along low areas of the main canal embankment
• All pumps and sluices are in operation
• Excess water from the main canal is being discharged at Uno Creek, Somerset and Berks
• There are seven teams working on the conservancy to heighten the embankment
• Rainfall continues to be intense

Region Three

Canal Number 1 & 2 Polders

• There is still flooding in both Canals
• Mechanical cleaning of the Canals in both Polders and other necessary drainage works are in progress
• All pumps and sluices are in operation

Region Five

Mahaica, Mahaicony and Abary

• Flooding in Mahaicony Creek continues
• There are reports of flooding within De Hoop and the upper reaches of Mahaica
• The Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA) is monitoring the situation in the Mahaicony Creek and is executing necessary works
• Revetment work at Perth/Biaboo, Mahaica Creek is almost complete
• All pumps and sluices are in operation
• Acting Minister of Agriculture, Satyadeow Sawh and team is currently assessing the situation in the Mahaicony and Abary Creeks
• Public Service Minister Dr. Jennifer Westford is currently in the Mahaica area

Region Six

• There is report of flooding within Number 19 Village, Whim, Fyrish, Gibraltar and low areas along the Coast
• All sluices and pumps are in operation
• Additional pump installed at Joppa by the Regional administration is functional
• Regional Administration undertaking clearing of residential drains within Yakusari and Johanna
• Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Harry Narine Nawbatt, is in Region Six to assess the situation.

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FLOOD UPDATE

Georgetown , GINA, January 15, 2006

Government continues to assess the flood situation and provide relief to those affected. However, over the past 24 hours there has been heavy rainfall.

Region Two

Pomeroon River

• According to Regional Chairman, Ali Baksh there has been serious overtopping from the Capoey Lake into the main Conservancy Dam which in turn flows into distributaries into housing schemes in the area, especially during the high tide.

• There has also been over-topping at Johanna Celina, Coffee Grove and Supenaam. At Dawa, water has heightened approximately six inches as a result of overtopping from the Tapacuma Lake.

• Due to the incessant rainfall over the past 15 hours, Baksh noted that there are five pumps working around the clock to facilitate the flow of water in the low-lying areas.

• There have been reports of persons interfering with Conservancy Dam sluice doors. As a result two teams have been dispatched to patrol the North and South sections of the Dam.

• All sluices and kokers are in operation.

Region Six

• Today, Minister of Public Works and Hydraulics Harrynarine Nawbatt and a team visited the flood hit areas. This is according to Member of Parliament, Zulfikar Mustapha.

• Fish farms at No. 19 are overtopping and it was discovered that there is a breach at the sea dam, which will be sealed immediately as was instructed by the Minister.

• A pump will be removed from No. 43 to No.19 to facilitate the flow of water when the sluice is closed.

• A committee has been established at No. 19 to monitor the area’s sluice and pump.

• At Gangaram, East Canje, due to the fragility of the sea defence, Minister Nawbatt has instructed Chief Sea Defence Officer, George Howard to begin emergency works.

• Flood affected areas in Black Bush Polder have been drained and clearing of main canals and collector drains are ongoing.

• At Sandvoort, work is ongoing on the Crown Dam.

Region Three

• According to Chief Executive Officer of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (ND&IA) Ravi Narine, there has been slight flooding as a result of the heavy rainfall over the past few hours.

• However, all pumps and sluices are in operation to drain the land.

East Demerara Water Conservancy Dam

• There is no threat to the East Demerara Water Conservancy Dam (EDWCD) according to CEO of ND&IA Ravi Narine. He noted that at the eastern end of the Dam the level is 58.35 GD and at Land of Canaan it is 55.50GD.

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Immediate advisory: January 14, 2005

The Government of Guyana is advising all residents living in low lying communities to take all necessary precautions in light of the high intensity rainfall which has occurred over the last 18 hrs, and is expected to continue.

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Heavy rainfall observed over past 18 hours - Government Ministers in spot checks of communities

Georgetown, GINA, January 14, 2006

Several Ministers of the government are currently in the field conducting spot checks following intense rainfall over the past 18 hours. The current weather pattern is expected to continue.

The report issued by the Hydrometerological Office for January 13 through 19 states that wide spread rainfall is likely to occur on January 14 and 15. It is expected that on these days isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds may be experienced while some locations may exceed 1.5 inches of rainfall in a 24-hour period.

Public Service Minister, Dr. Jennifer Westford visited a number of communities on the East Coast Demerara earlier today and has indicated that no unusual flooding was observed.

Also on the East Coast Demerara carrying out checks are Ministers of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy and Minister of Housing and Water Shaik Baksh.

Minister within the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security, Bibi Shadick has been deployed to Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) while Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, other Crops and Livestock, Satyadeow Sawh is in Mahaicony, Region Five (Mahaica/ Berbice).

Minister of Public Works and Communications, Harry Narine Nawbatt is in Berbice checking on a number of areas.

Government Ministers will continue to monitor first hand the situation and residents of low-lying areas are advised to be alert and to take all necessary precautions.

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Minister Shadick visits Region Three – water draining off quickly

Georgetown, GINA, January 14, 2006

As government Ministers conduct spot checks today in various regions, Minister within the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security Bibi Shadick visited areas from Vriesland on the West Bank Demerara to Parika, East Bank Essequibo, following incessant rainfall last evening and earlier today.

“I was told that the water level was high this morning but now … it has reduced significantly, as you can see the water is moving quickly in the canal,” Minister Shadick said while speaking to residents of Parika.

Water which had risen overnight was quickly draining off when the Minister visited the communities.

She explained that if the rain continues, the water will rise again. She appealed to residents to try as much as possible to avoid contact with the water.

The Minister made brief stops at Wales, Sister’s village and Stanleytown on the West Bank Demerara and Hubu and Parika.

The Minister expressed disappointment that the Region Three officials did not ensure proper maintenance of the main drainage canals in the Region. She also urged residents to assist in the prevention of flood by clearing their drains.

Minister Shadick said too, that government will continue to try to bring comfort and relief to those affected.

Minister of Public Service Dr. Jennifer Westford, Minister of Housing and Water Shaik Baksh and Minister of Health Dr. Leslie Ramsammy were in communities on the East Bank and East Coast Demerara, while Minister of Agriculture (ag.) Satyadeow Sawh was in Mahaicony area, while Minister of Transport and Hydraulics Harry Narine Nawbatt was in Berbice to assess the situation.

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Minister Baksh conducts flood checks on Lower East Coast, East Bank Demerara

Georgetown, GINA, January 14, 2005.

Most communities on the East Coast and East Bank Demerara were not seriously affected after hours of intense rainfall.

On a visit to several communities Minister of Housing and Water Shaik Baksh, who was part of a Ministerial fan out to Regions Three, Four, Five and Six today, observed that there were some accumulation in low lying areas.

Minister Baksh visited De Endgrat and Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, Diamond, Grove, Farm and Herstelling, East Bank Demerara and Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

In most areas, the water was high in the drainage canals but was being effectively discharged through the drainage system.

At Grove, emergency drainage and irrigation works are currently ongoing to clean one of the area’s main canal. This project is being undertaken by the Ministry of Housing and Water at a cost of more than $5M.

Minister Baksh observed that the internal drainage network also needs to be cleared. As such, the contract to H. Nauth & Sons Contracting Services was extended at a cost of an additional $3M.

Project Manager of H. Nauth & Sons, Kiran Nauth assured that they will be working through the night so that the project can be completed by tomorrow.

At De Endgrat, the Minister met residents and discussed the construction of a road which will result in some residents’ land being reduced. The majority of the residents were in favour, despite the shortening of their lands.

The road is one of six being constructed in the squatter settlement under a phased development plan.