THE level and quality of physical and social infrastructure within an urban area are among indicators used to assess the economic prosperity of cities or towns and the nation as a whole.
However, while infrastructure has played a major role in enhancing the economic wellbeing of Guyana, deviations from zoning laws have posed significant social and environmental threats to citizens. One of the concerns in the social spectrum is the issue of commercial enterprises that are not adhering to zoning laws.
Recently, it was noted that in traditional residential areas the deviations have been spiraling out of control. In Alberttown for instance, an area that is designated as a residential area, commercial enterprises including Bish and Sons, Atlantic Star Cable Company and Cheddi Jagan Dental Centre are among the many businesses housed within that area.
To combat this issue, however, Public Infrastructure Minister David Paterson in an invited comment said recently that the ministry intends to re-examine the zoning laws which currently exist.
These laws were formulated in 1946 and have not been amended since, and there has been evident nonconformity with them over the years.
According to the Minister: “There will be a comprehensive review of the laws,” which will seek to aid in the long-term survival of the country.
But not limited to the Infrastructure Ministry, Patterson noted that a collaborative effort will be pursued in ensuring that this initiative bears fruit. This will be done by sourcing efforts from City Hall, Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) and the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) across the country.
TOUGH DECISIONS
As it relates to the current violators of the zoning laws, the Minister posited that “tough decisions” will be made in that regard.
“We have to make some tough decisions and the tough decisions will be for the betterment of the country. We can’t allow the transgression of people who did what they did because there is no enforcement to respect the growth and development of the entire country,” Minister Patterson related.
Just last year, local merchandising giant, M. Beepat and Sons had their three-storey concrete storage bond at Temple Street, Ogle, ECD ravaged by flames. The fire which consumed the contents of the bond also destroyed a neighbouring wooden home, leaving five persons and two rabbits homeless.
Meanwhile, enterprises including Chinese shops and retail stores existing within these residential areas have also posed environmental problems for citizens living within the vicinity.
Improper solid waste management and the emission of hazardous gases from these companies are but two of the indicators of their contribution to environmental threats to citizens.
By Ravin Singh
