—President Ali assures fisherfolk development will proceed without displacement

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has assured fisherfolk at Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara, that the government’s waterfront and fisheries development project remains on track, and will not result in the displacement of vendors and boat owners operating in the area.
The President gave the assurance during a visit to the community where he assessed flooding and drainage conditions, and engaged residents on concerns affecting their livelihoods.
During discussions with fisherfolk and vendors, President Ali sought to dispel rumours that persons would be removed from the area to facilitate the planned development works.
“Nobody is going to move you from here. Don’t let anybody mislead you,” the President told residents.
He explained that the ongoing and planned works are intended to improve the community’s infrastructure while supporting the fishing industry and strengthening flood mitigation efforts.
According to the Head of State, revetment works and dredging activities will improve drainage, and enhance the area’s river defence system while laying the groundwork for broader waterfront development.
The government had previously announced plans for a major upgrade of the Goed Fortuin waterfront, which will include a cold storage facility, timber wharf, improved lighting, enhanced security infrastructure, and upgraded vending facilities for fisherfolk.
The project is expected to be funded through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA).
President Ali indicated that major construction works could begin within the next six to eight weeks, while revetment and dredging activities are expected to commence sooner.
Importantly, he said the project will be implemented in phases to ensure that fisherfolk can continue earning a livelihood while construction progresses.
“We have to work together. We will do section by section so people can continue earning while the work continues,” he said.
The President also used the visit to address concerns about flooding affecting homes, farmlands and drainage channels across the region following days of intense rainfall.
He noted that the volume of rainfall experienced in recent weeks has placed considerable pressure on drainage systems across several parts of the country.
Residents acknowledged that although the rainfall has been significant, investments made by the government in drainage infrastructure have helped improve water management in agricultural communities.
One resident pointed to previously rehabilitated drainage channels, noting that they have played an important role in reducing the impact of flooding on farms despite the unusually high levels of rainfall.
President Ali said authorities remain actively engaged in monitoring water levels and deploying resources where necessary to improve drainage and provide assistance to affected communities.
The visit formed part of the government’s ongoing nationwide assessment of flood-affected areas as regional administrations, drainage authorities and emergency response agencies continue efforts to mitigate the effects of severe rainfall across Guyana.