Government has been expediting sea defence works on the Essequibo Coast, Region 2, to mitigate flooding, a common feature of overtopping caused by the spring tide coupled with encroachment on the sea defence reserves.
Chief Sea and River Defence Officer (ag), Geoffrey Vaughn, highlighted that necessary sea defence construction works are being affected by persons who are squatting on the foreshore and stressed the need for their removal.
The Ministry has issued notices informing these squatters that they are occupying State reserves and it is against the law. Vaughn emphasised that according to the Sea Defence Act, persons occupying the Sea Defence reserves will face penalties.
He said that efforts are being made to clear the reserves, in collaboration with all relevant agencies, including the ministries of Housing and Water and Public Works and Communications and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils.
Additionally, erosion is ongoing in some areas, especially where groynes were, making the Coastland more vulnerable to flooding.
He noted that defenses in several eroded areas will be constructed, reconstructed and rehabilitated under the 9th European Development Fund by BK International shortly.
Vaughn stated that construction works have commenced at Zorg, while approximately one-kilometre of earthen embankment is being constructed at Good Hope.
“The National Drainage and Irrigation Authority has constructed a sluice and the Ministry of Public Works and Communications has to remove the old sluice and tie back in the one that it has at Golden Fleece,” Vaughn stated.
One of the areas that has recently been affected by overtopping is Cullen and the Ministry is in the process of completing a tender document for the execution of embankment works that will remove some of the negative aspects of the overtopping.
Vaughn noted that throughout the year there will be remedial and rehabilitation works to ensure that structures are safe and secure.