Belladrum/Foulis and Plantation Brahan in Region Five early yesterday morning experienced overtopping in the sea defence as a result of high tides. Residents were not affected since the water overflowed into the façade canal used by the Mahaica Mahaicony Abary Development Authority (MMA/ADA)) to drain sluices during low tides’ according to a source from the Ministry of Public Works .

Both areas experienced spring tides at approximately 02:30h yesterday morning, resulting in the overtopping. The current spring tide period began on July 19 and will end on July 27.

The situation is being monitored by the Chief Engineer of Region Five, Davindranauth Johnny.

Yesterday afternoon was highest of the spring tides, which peaked at 5:15 pm at 3.3 metres above chart datum. This morning the tide will be highest at 3.29m while on Saturday it will be 3.20m and will continue to drop from then on.

Currently works are ongoing at Plantation Brahan to enhance the sea defence in that area and a contract for the construction of a sluice at Belladrum/Foulis is awaiting approval.

In March 2008, interventions were made by the Government to strengthen the sea defence on the lower East Coast Demerara including Better Hope, Vryheid’s Lust and Montrose which were affected by overtopping caused by spring tides. (GINA)