IN a prompt and coordinated response, the Government of Guyana dispatched food, essential supplies, and emergency aid to the town of Linden following the severe storm that swept through Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) on Tuesday evening. The storm, which caused extensive damage, tore the roofs off several homes, leaving dozens of families in Wismar and McKenzie exposed to heavy rainfall and without shelter.
Leading the government’s relief efforts was Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, who visited the affected areas on Wednesday alongside a high-level delegation.
His team included Opposition Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira, Regional Executive Officer, Dwight John, Town Clerk Lennox Gasper, Regional Representative of the Prime Minister’s office, Orin Wilson, PPP/C Coordinator Mr. Andrew Foresight, as well as engineers and other regional officials.

Together, they visited over thirty-three households to assess the damage and offer immediate relief.
“Our priority right now is to ensure families can safely return to their homes. We are focusing on getting roofs back on as quickly as possible,” said Minister Edghill. “We’ve mobilised contractors from Region 10 and deployed technical officers from the Ministry of Public Works to facilitate emergency repairs and restore proper shelter for residents. Our government stands ready to support the affected families every step of the way.”

The Minister described scenes of widespread flooding, where the loss of roofs left homes waterlogged and uninhabitable. Fallen trees have added to the destruction, complicating recovery efforts for both families and local infrastructure.
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has been instrumental in the government’s response, conducting rapid assessments and delivering hot meals to families unable to cook due to water damage. Minister Edghill emphasised that the government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all those affected, pledging ongoing support to help families recover and rebuild.

“The government’s response is focused on ensuring that no family is left vulnerable,” Minister Edghill assured the people of Linden. “Losing a roof and enduring flooding is devastating, but we are committed to restoring your homes and providing continued support during this difficult time.”
The Minister further reiterated the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s dedication to restoring normalcy for the families in Linden. “We are working tirelessly to ensure that homes are repaired and that everyone has access to meals and essential services. The government will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Linden as they rebuild their lives after this unfortunate event.”
In addition to immediate relief efforts, the government is partnering with local contractors and civil society organisations to expedite repairs and ensure that families can return to their homes as quickly as possible. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with a continued focus on repairing roofs and restoring basic infrastructure across the affected areas.