A RESIDENT of Lamaha Park in Georgetown narrowly escaped the jaws of a black caiman when he fell into a reptile-infested trench, after one of the planks on the bridge linking that housing scheme to the Lamaha Springs (Joint Services) community collapsed.Misfortune struck as the resident was attempting to cross the bridge on his way home from work in the city.
When the young man fell, his right leg was trapped in the mud under the bridge and as he struggled to get out he ended up with bloody knees and ripped up trousers.
However, he had been luckier than he really knew as soon after arriving home, a neighbour raised an alarm that a black caiman (commonly referred to as ‘alligator’ locally) about three feet long had just emerged from the same trench and secluded itself among flower pots in her yard.
Residents have complained about the deplorable condition of the two bridges leading to Lamaha Park, and traversed daily by about 200 persons.
The pedestrians include schoolchildren from Sophia (in the north), and those making their way to schools in TucVille and South Ruimveldt and senior citizens on their way to uplift pensions.
The condition of the bridge linking Festival City with Lamaha Park was highlighted in this newspaper over a year ago, but no action has yet been taken. And just one week ago the issue was featured on the Stabroek News front page.
Which agency will save the beleaguered residents from the perils of this dangerous bridge? – that’s the question.
By Shirley Thomas
