President Irfaan Ali visited Zeelugt (Old Scheme and Railway View), Region Three yesterday and pledged support for the relocation of squatters.
Several issues were addressed in those areas, including roads and drainage infrastructure and security, the Department of Public Information (DPI) said.
In Zeelugt, the president scolded regional engineers and contractors for the slow pace of road and bridge construction works in the area.
He urged the Ministry of Public Works to take the necessary steps to expedite the works so that the residents can benefit from improved infrastructure, DPI said.
President Ali also met with a group of residents squatting on the government reserve in Zeelugt North (Sideline Dam). Many of them had been allocated land as part of their relocation process.
He assured continued support in the relocation of the residents to developed housing schemes within the region, DPI said. This includes the provision of steel and cement to accelerate the construction of their homes.
“So, all who got house lots when you move we are going to help you…you got this steel and cement vouchers…. Importantly, you can’t stay here…. It’s not good for the children, it’s not good for you,” the President told the residents.
The president also underlined the government’s commitment to addressing the issue of squatting nationwide.
The Ministry of Housing and Water, along with the Ministries of Public Works and Local Government and Regional Development, will return to the area today to further engage the residents on their relocation process, DPI added.
The president was accompanied by Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, and Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag and other technical staff.
