—Authorities monitoring situation, assessing transportation access and emergency response readiness

PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Saturday received a technical briefing from the Civil Defence Commission and key response agencies regarding reports of flooding affecting several communities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) following continued heavy rainfall.
The briefing, which included representatives from the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force and other technical officers, focused on the current conditions in affected communities, challenges relating to transportation and access, and the readiness of response systems should conditions deteriorate.
Officials informed the Prime Minister that flooding had been reported in communities including St. Ignatius, Annai, Aranaputa, Karasabai, Masekenari and Aishalton.
According to the information currently available, the flooding has primarily affected transportation networks and access routes, while assessments are ongoing to determine the extent of the impact on households and communities.
The meeting also examined contingency systems and support mechanisms that may be required, should the situation worsen. Discussions centred on maintaining communication with affected villages, monitoring water levels, assessing potential food and medical requirements, and identifying possible shelters, if needed.
Prime Minister Phillips, under whose portfolio the Civil Defence Commission falls, directed that all response efforts be coordinated through the CDC’s regional mechanism in Region Nine, working closely with regional authorities and national response agencies.
He underscored the importance of continued monitoring, timely reporting, and coordinated action among agencies as weather conditions continue to evolve.
The Prime Minister also called for regular situation reports to ensure that authorities remain fully updated and prepared to respond swiftly if additional intervention becomes necessary.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand and Regional Chairman Karl Singh also participated in the meeting virtually and provided updates from the regional level