– during spring tide
THE Ministry of Public Works and Communication has been strengthening sea defence structures across the country to prevent floods caused by the risiang sea level, especially along the coastline.

This effort has proven effective as less areas have been affected by over topping caused by high tide and long range swells emanating from the Atlantic Ocean.

Areas which experienced flooding were Cornelia Ida, Anna Catherina, Leonora and Zeelugt, West Coast Demerara (Region Three) and Montrose, Better Hope, Ogle and Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara (Region Four).

Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Robeson Benn, said the extent of flooding in Anna Catherina could have been prevented had it not been for the illegal shacks encumbering State’s sea defence reserves.

He noted that the actions of the illegal squatters were not only dangerous to themselves and family members, but to the community at large.

Irresponsible disposal of garbage in communities also contributed to the flooding.

Agnes Dalrymple, Chief Sea & River Defence Officer stated that drains were cleared of refuse through a collaborative effort by the Ministry and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).

She noted that in addition to sea defence structures being built in various locations including Belladrum in Region Five, and Line Path in Region Six, the Ministry will continue to join forces with the Ministries of Housing and Water, and Local Government and Regional Development and with the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).