-Holder assures residents of plan to repair D&I structures

A three-pronged approach that will respond effectively to the drainage and irrigation challenges here is being explored even as the Government works to ensure the City is drained before Christmas.Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder on Friday visited pump stations along the East Coast Demerara (ECD) to ensure that all pumps are being operated at full capacity and sluice attendants are vigilant.
The minister said emphasis will be being placed on assistance to get farmers back to the land, construction and rehabilitation of pump stations at strategic locations and identification of areas where new farming can commence.
Meanwhile, visits were made to pump stations and sluices located at Kitty, Liliendaal, Montrose, Lusignan and Buxton, a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture said on Friday.
“It has been an ongoing effort by our Government but, as we make progress in this regard, there will be difficulties and there will be new challenges… throughout our country, we will continue to deal with the erratic weather that is taking place. But we also have to look to working with farmers; look at how we can make our farming activities, climate resilient,” he said.
Additionally, visits were also made to affected communities along the coast where the minister and a team of officials, including Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, George Jervis and Chief Executive Officer National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Fredrick Flatts interacted with residents, while updating them on Governments plans to improve drainage and irrigation (D&I).
“Government had embarked on the rehabilitation of the drainage infrastructure as one of its priorities after taking office in May 2015. It has spent huge sums on works in the City and along the coastal regions to prevent and alleviate flooding,” Holder said.
Meanwhile, NDIA had announced it preparedness to effectively respond to any eventuality which may arise as a result of the rainy season. As a result, pumps and excavators had been deployed countrywide.
The Ministry of Agriculture said that approximately 94 per cent of the pumps and excavators owned and operated by the NDIA are operable and have been deployed at critical locations in all coastal regions, to assist in drainage needs.
However, the Hydromet Department has advised that rainfall is expected to continue on Saturday, and as much as 45mm of rainfall is expected which is above the established drainage capacity within the City.