With more rainfall expected over the coming days, the Region Four Regional Democratic Council (RDC) yesterday reported that a large majority of the region’s drainage infrastructure is in operation.
According to a regional drainage report, which was prepared by the Office of the Regional Chairman, flooding in some areas may continue, particularly flood-prone areas. However, it noted that flood and high waters have begun to recede in some of the affected areas in and around the region.
On the East Bank of Demerara, it said, flooding was reported in Block B- Mocha, and St. Cuthbert’s Mission (Goal Hill). It further noted that there are 44 sluices on the East Bank, 40 of which are functional, while the remainder require repairs and maintenance.
The report added that on the East Coast of Demerara, flooding was reported in cattle areas at Cane Grove Cattle Pasture, while a minor accumulation of water was reported in some coastal villages. It further said that there are 25 sluices on the East Coast, 21 of which are functional, while the remainder are inoperable due to siltation although pumps are providing drainage. There are 56 pumps on the East Coast, the report said, with 48 functional, and eight inoperable and requiring repairs and maintenance.
In Georgetown, the report said flood waters receded in sections of North, East and South Ruimveldt, sections of Alexander Village, sections of Queenstown, and sections of Bel Air. There was, however, mild flooding in and around Georgetown. It said while there are 12 sluices in Georgetown, 11 are functional and of 12 pumps, 11 are also functional.
The report advised that residents report all instances of breaches to sea defence, failure of drainage infrastructure and equipment, and obstruction of drainage channels immediately to their Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), the Georgetown Mayor and City Council or the RDC.
Residents were also reminded that all garbage is to be disposed of in the proper manner so as to have drainage channels cleared of impediments that could impede drainage.
Areas severely affected will be visited by the RDC and assessments will be conducted to bring relief to those in need of it.
All residents are being advised to take extra precautions when using the roadways and to sanitize their homes in flood affected areas so as to minimize potential health issues.
