By Marvin Cato | HGP Nghtly News|
FOULIS, EAST COAST DEMERARA — The Buxton-Foulis Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) has launched a strategic cleanup and demolition exercise to remove illegal structures and encumbrances along the public roadway. Led by Councillor Sirestsi Bascom, the operation on Wednesday targeted structures in the Foulis community that officials say pose a direct threat to the safety of drivers, commuters, and the general public.
The exercise comes as the East Coast corridor undergoes rapid residential development, leading to a significant increase in vehicular traffic.
Clearing the Path for Commuters
According to Councillor Bascom, the removal of these “encumbrances” is a necessary step to restore order and safety to the village streets.
- Traffic Hazards: Many of the illegal structures were built so close to the roadway that pedestrians were forced to venture onto the main highway to bypass them—a situation described as “dangerous” for both walkers and high-speed motorists.
- Visibility and Flow: The NDC noted that these structures often impede the vision of drivers, particularly at corners and junctions, increasing the likelihood of preventable collisions.
- Sanitation and Crime: Bascom highlighted that some of the demolished sites had become havens for garbage pileups and “illegal activity,” contributing to an unsanitary and insecure environment for nearby residents.
A Consultative Approach: “Safety, Not Displacement”
While the demolition was swift, the NDC emphasized that the goal is not to destroy livelihoods but to enforce community standards.
- Support for Vendors: The Council has invited affected persons—particularly those plying their trade—to visit the NDC office. Officials have committed to connecting these individuals with “support groups” and alternative arrangements to ensure their economic activities can continue in a legal and safe manner.
- Mitigating Disruption: Bascom indicated that the NDC is actively engaging with those affected to assist in whatever way possible to minimize the impact on their daily lives.
Broader National Context
The Buxton-Foulis operation aligns with a wider national mandate led by the Ministry of Public Works. Across Guyana, the government has been intensifying efforts to clear road reserves of containers, derelict vehicles, and unauthorized vending stalls.
Why the Crackdown is Intensifying in 2026:
- Housing Boom: With several new housing schemes developing within the Buxton-Foulis NDC, traffic volume has reached record highs.
- Modernization: Ensuring “smooth traffic flow” is a pillar of the government’s 2026 infrastructure and road safety strategy.
- Emergency Access: Clearer roadways allow for faster response times for emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire trucks.
Warning of More Removals
The NDC has sounded the alarm that this is only the beginning. More structures identified as impeding traffic or contributing to an unsafe environment within the Buxton-Foulis district are slated for removal in the coming weeks.
“Our goal is not to displace those who are earning a living, but about safety across communities,” Councillor Bascom reminded during the exercise.
