Dear Editor,
Given the renewed urgency expressed, and based on the recent studies of future flooding and the cities to be negatively impacted, it is extremely urgent that our Government act accordingly. There is no longer time for further debate on whether or not a new city is needed. Planning and implementation has to occur within this decade, with an emphasis on the plan’s implementation to ensure that the majority of our population is relocated to higher ground outside of the future flood zone. The study that has highlighted Bartica as a potential new location for our Capital must now be utilized and given the highest priority for investment in infrastructure, housing and agriculture. Going further inland will delay the rebuilding process. Time is of the essence and no further waste of our current and future economic strength must take place.
Our new Capital City is where the house lots must be given; this is where the hospitals and schools must be built; this is where GuySuCo and our farmers must invest and expand; this is where new roads must be built and new wells dug; this is where priority must be given to foreign investors for the building of hotels and restaurants; this is where new government offices are needed. Over half of our population is at risk in Georgetown and a large percent of our food supply is also vulnerable. Time is of the essence and we must act now if we as a nation are to avoid the hardships, diseases and economic loss that will come as the sea level rises and the rains increase along the coast.
Sincerely,
Jamil Changlee
Chairman
The Cooperative Republicans of
Guyana
