If one were to calculate the time lost annually due to traffic congestion which have been caused in many instances because of encumbrances of the roadways the figure might be an astronomical one. This we can ill-afford as we strive to increase production and productivity and become competitive globally. In this regard time is an essential factor.

This sort of encumbrance has to be stamped out quickly or else it could become a national “monster” as it has already done in some communities.

We must learn from the experience of what has happened in Georgetown where in many parts the pavements have been transformed into virtual shopping malls and because of inaction by the authorities the situation has reached unbearable proportions. Fortunately in recent years some efforts have been made to address this problem but much more has to be done and quickly too.

It is indeed good news to hear that the Chairman of Region Two that his administration will soon launch a campaign to clear the road shoulders on the Essequibo Coast.

This action needs to be emulated by all regional administrations, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and municipalities and must be a sustained one because too often campaigns are launched but they are not sustained and the problem soon resurfaces.

Of course one understands, recognises and applauds the efforts of stallholders and vendors to earn a decent and honest living or to supplement their income. However, equally important is that citizens must realise that they need to act lawfully and responsibly in whatever endeavour they intend to pursue. They must understand that they do not have an automatic right to erect or place stalls on road shoulders or wherever they please.

Perhaps the long term solution to this problem lies in a greater involvement of regional administrations and NDCs in creating community markets in a planned and organised manner with all the necessary sanitary facilities, parking lots etc. In so doing an opportunity would be provided to those who want to become engaged in some form of vending and remove the excuse that in the absence of a facility for vending there is no alternative but to engage in roadside vending.

On this score Canadian agricultural specialist, Ms. Janet Bachmann, made an interesting observation: “Established farmers’ markets can be among the jewels of a community, and for this reason should have strong support from the Chamber of Commerce or economic development council. Cities often provide space for a market free-of-charge. They can also help promote special events that draw customers both to the market and to shops in the vicinity. The city may be willing to construct shelters to give vendors and customers’ protection from rain and sun.”

Indeed markets can become “jewels of a community” provided they are properly organised and have all the essential facilities and conveniences that go with modern day life.

But apart from markets providing a service to the community they could also become a source of income for NDCs and municipalities, as we often hear the complaint from these bodies of a lack of funds to undertake developmental works.

These markets could also become a source of employment because administrative personnel, truckers, cleaners, security guards, etc, would be needed at these facilities.

In addition, markets serve as a place of social gathering where friends and relatives meet and chat.

Therefore the NDCs and municipalities should closely examine in the respective communities the feasibility and possibilities of establishing organised market places. If resources pose a problem then the prevailing trend of public/private sector partnership should be sought.