THE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has expressed concern over persons squatting on the drainage reserve at Non Pareil, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
“This recent development will prevent the corporation from maintaining the drainage system to prevent flooding to Non Pareil, Strathspey and neighbouring villages,” the corporation said.

The drainage outfall located between Non Pareil and Strathspey villages and operated from three pumps at Strathspey at the old railway to the sea sluice cannot be de-silted and maintained with squatters on the eastern reserve.

The rainy season will commence in a few weeks and GuySuCo would not be able to effectively operate the drainage pumps. If the pumps are inoperable, there could be severe flooding for prolonged periods.

The squatters’ buildings and pickets/rails are on the eastern embankment of the outfall channel, which is required for machine access and placement of sludge from the drainage canal. This is especially so between the East Coast Public Road and the Strathspey Sea sluice.

The corporation is appealing to all relevant authorities to take the necessary actions to clear the reserve before the May-June rains begin, so as to prevent severe flooding of residential communities as well as lands being used for agricultural purposes, such as cash crops.