Standing water at city intersection poses problems for residents

A waterlogged section of New Market Street
A waterlogged section of New Market Street

Residents of Waterloo and Quamina streets in South Cummingsburg, Georgetown are grappling with severe waterlogging, which has become a persistent issue on the roadway outside their homes.

Three residents, who requested anonymity, described their daily struggles. One resident related that during the rainy season, he and his family are forced to manually clean the drains on the parapet to alleviate flooding. He noted that this has been a longstanding issue, and the waterlogged street has now become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. “We have to take matters into our own hands to prevent the flooding from getting worse,” he said, adding, “It’s not just inconvenient; it’s a health hazard.”

The waterlogged intersection of Quamina and Waterloo streets

Another resident offered a different perspective. “It doesn’t really affect me. They just need to level the road and drains. As you can see, the walkway is higher. Although I’m not directly affected, I can understand the concerns of other residents.” He acknowledged the way in which the problem impacts different sections of the community and suggested that infrastructural improvements could alleviate the situation.

Walking further along the roadways, it was observed that several spots were waterlogged, with large puddles of dirty water notably present at the intersection of Quamina and Waterloo Streets. These stagnant pools not only pose a nuisance but can also contribute to the proliferation of mosquitoes and other pests, creating a public health concern.

Local authorities have yet to address the issue comprehensively. The residents’ efforts to maintain cleanliness and manage the water levels are only temporary fixes. A long-term solution involving proper drainage systems and road levelling is urgently needed to mitigate this recurring problem.

The affected community members are calling for immediate action to address the waterlogging. “We need the authorities to step in and provide a lasting solution,” one resident urged. “Our health and safety are at risk, and we can’t continue to live like this.”

The ongoing issue of waterlogging at Waterloo and Quamina Streets highlights the need for improved infrastructure and prompt government intervention to ensure the well-being of the residents.