Over 15 families living in close proximity to Unu Creek, Cullen, in Region Two, had to move their possessions to higher ground on Friday afternoon after seawater gushed into their lower flats due to a breach in the sea dam which resulted in severe flooding.
The breach occurred around 5 pm.
Residents told Stabroek News that they saw water entering their lower flats and upon investigating they noticed that it was coming from the seaside. Those that were predominantly affected were residents who live on the Cullen Sand Top area. These families have been squatting on the sand top area close to the seaside for over 15 years. Most of them are fishermen.
“We just saw the water pouring in and we got busy to move up we chairs, television sets, and our groceries. Years ago we were flooded and now like it looks like we will get lost again” a resident related.
Another resident said that they have to be careful that the saltwater does not get on their items.
Residents also came out and tried to put sandbags near the breach but their efforts proved futile.
Regional Vice Chairman Humace Oodit said he received the call from residents on Friday evening. He said that emergency works will be done by the Drainage and Irrigation staff to bring the situation under control.
Workers and machinery were deployed to the area to assist in sealing the breach. Oodit said that the Regional Engineer Kawan Suchit will also visit the area and remedial works will commence. He, therefore, advised residents to be safe and to move their items to safeguard them.
Several kitchen gardens were currently inundated with water. Some poultry pens were also under water. Several trenches were also overflowing as the tides were rising.
