Guyana mobilises multi-agency response as flooding hits Region 10
A multi-agency response team has been activated in Guyana to assist resident of Liden in Region 10, Guyana impacted by severe flooding.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips said the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) has engaged private contractors to clean and clear the drains to facilitate better water flow and reduce flooding.
“To ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) will be establishing two shelters to provide temporary accommodation and essential supplies for displaced residents. These shelters will be located at Egbert Benjamin Hall and another location to be announced shortly,” the prime minister said in a statement.
“The Ministry of Public Works (MoPW), in collaboration with the Linden Town Council and the Office of the Regional Democratic Council, is working assiduously to clean and clear debris in critical areas, including alleys in Wismar and the Retrieve area in Linden. Our government is working tirelessly to ensure that all necessary resources are mobilised to address this crisis.”
The flooding has been linked to heavy rains that began over the weekend.
Phillips said the extent of the flooding can be attributed to the “ineptitude of the current Mayor and Councillors who are focused on collecting revenues from all possible sources while failing to maintain the drainage infrastructure essential for the safety of the residents.”
The prime minister accused the council of being disruptive and against progress as he noted they boycotted a clean up project ahead of an independence flag raising ceremony.
“Given Region Ten’s highest per capita budget, surpassing any other administrative region in Guyana, it should be better prepared for flooding. Both the RDC and the Municipality of Linden must now lead a massive cleanup operation before the next deluge. With the La Niña weather phenomenon predicting more rainfall in the coming months, immediate action is imperative,” the prime minister added.
