-Deputy REO
…region gradually returning to normalcy
THE flood waters in Region 9 are receding rapidly, even though it rained Monday evening. This was the assurance given yesterday by Deputy Regional Executive Officer (REO), Tickram Bissessar in a first hand update on the flood situation in Lethem and its sub districts. He told this publication that the region is slowly returning to normalcy as the rains have almost ceased.
According to Bissessar, there are no serious reports of any unusual occurrences in the region and presently they are experiencing bright sunshine, which was predicted to continue throughout the day. He added that officials in the region are still meeting twice daily to keep an eye on the situation.
With regard to food supply, Bissessar confirmed that there is enough in stock for Lethem and all the other sub regions affected by the flood waters, quelling the perception that there will be a food shortage.
Meanwhile, on the issue of electricity supply, electrical engineer of the Lethem Power Company, Silveriun, Perry told this newspaper that the region is currently receiving some 18 hours of power daily. He said that fuel supply will not be an issue since there is adequate supply in stock.
The company usually gets a supply of fuel every week, and Perry is hopeful that the other shipment will arrive soon; the last batch went to the region last Friday.
Adequate drugs are still available and treatment is also available for water bourne diseases, should the situation continue or become worse. The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) is sourcing the items, Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Ganga Persaud said.
Families from the St. Ignatius area were evacuated to higher ground last week and three other families were transported to homes of their relatives at their request.
The Ministry of Public Works has been informed about the threat that some of the bridges pose to heavy vehicles, and some interventions have been made.
The water has receded to a great extent in the Rupununi area, and there were no reports of damage to crops and loss of livestock.
While the situation is improving, several rivers in Brazil continue to back up, and the situation is being monitored, as this could again cause flooding in the region.