– all fully operational
In light of the heavy rainfall Wednesday night and early yesterday, Minister of Agriculture, Robert Persaud conducted an inspection of drainage pumps at Kitty, Liliendaal, Vryheid’s Lust and Lusignan. All of the drainage pumps were fully operational, discharging excess water into the Atlantic Ocean. Pump attendants were on site ensuring pumps were functioning effectively.
Minister Persaud noted that it is the onset on the rainy season (May- June) and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), along with the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC), will be working to ensure necessary measures are put in place to facilitate free drainage.
The NDCs are encouraged to be more vigilant in the monitoring of the drainage pumps since there’s a tendency for garbage to pile up in the water-ways.
The Agriculture Minister further stated that the rainfall is expected to continue until Saturday as was indicated by the Hydrometeorological Department. He is encouraging not only agencies to take the necessary steps, but also citizens to ensure that their water-ways are free of impediments.
The build-up of such impediments contributes to flooding and also causes damage to drainage pumps.
Minister Persaud indicated that equipment that was bought for assisting in irrigation purposes in the backlands will be brought back to assist with clearing the channels.
Several areas in the city were flooded yesterday following the heavy rainfall. The Mayor and City Council is responsible for drainage in the city while the Agriculture Ministry is responsible for farming areas.
Minister Persaud is encouraging the Mayor and City Council to look at the internal drainage systems and stated the NDIA will also be assisting.
The rain is welcome for there was a long dry season, and the rains will now replenish the conservancies and canals, Minister Persaud said. (GINA)