Government is currently spending over $95 million in works to alleviate the flooding being experienced by residents along the Demerara River in Linden, Region Ten.
A Department of Public Information (DPI) yesterday informed that a fortified river defence structure is being constructed along the Wismar shore to the tune of $95.7 million to absorb the impact of waves on the natural and built environment, according to Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill at a site inspection visit on Wednesday.
The project spans some 175 metres in length and is slated to be completed by mid-August.
(DPI photo)
“We are satisfied with the level of mobilisation and the speed in which the project is moving. So, this project will be completed by mid-August,” the minister remarked.
Rip-rap or rock armour is being used to control erosion by guarding the surface and dissipating wave energy reaching the shoreline. It consists of large boulders interlocked together to form rock revetments. In addition, a gabion basket is also being used to further prevent erosion by providing a landscape element to the structure. This application is a wired basket-like structure compacted with various rocks or soil and is typically used in streambanks and areas with steep slopes, DPI said.
Edghill stated that these applications were used to reinforce the structure at Speightland and are now being used to prevent the riverfront from breaking away.
He emphasised the importance of the sturdy sea and river defence structures to safeguard the lives of citizens and their properties and stressed that the government has been taking an aggressive approach to monitor and upgrade existing structures.
To assist this effort, some $6.9 billion was dedicated to fortifying the country’s sea and river defence infrastructure in Budget 2024.
The release disclosed that a docking facility is set to be constructed at the Mackenzie boat landing dedicated to the people of Malali and Muritaro. The $15 million dock will consist of a shed, waiting area, and washroom facilities. The design of the facility has already been obtained and a contractor is to be assigned, with the minister assuring that works will commence in August.
