Infrastructure vs. Health: Plaisance Residents Slam China Railway First Group Over Dust Crisis
By| Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
PLAISANCE, EAST COAST DEMERARA — The massive four-lane expansion of the East Coast Demerara Road, intended to be a flagship of modern Guyanese infrastructure, has turned into a daily health and economic struggle for those living along the railway embankment. Residents and business owners in Plaisance, Goedverwagting, and Ogle are reporting “grave” respiratory concerns and significant financial losses due to relentless dust pollution generated by the China Railway First Group project.
A Highway of Dust: Livelihoods Under Threat
While the project promises to transform travel from Sheriff Street to Orange Nassau, the immediate reality for local commerce is bleak.
- Food Safety & Retail: Business owners in Plaisance report that the fine dust is penetrating grocery items and food displays. One businesswoman noted that the thick layers of dust often lead customers to believe her stock is “expired or mildewed,” directly impacting her sales.
- Transportation & Tourism: Local taxi drivers complained that the dust is not just a nuisance but a physical irritant. “The dust irritates the eyes and deters passengers,” one driver remarked, noting that keeping vehicles clean has become an impossible, costly task.
- Cleaning Costs: Residents of Goedverwagting are now forced to pay out-of-pocket for professional cleaning services just to keep their homes habitable. “I don’t know who will reimburse me for that,” one frustrated resident told Nightly News.
Irregular Mitigation: “Soaking the Road When They Feel Like”
The primary grievance centers on the perceived negligence of the contractors regarding dust suppression.
- Inconsistent Water Spraying: “Uncle Roy,” a local vendor, voiced a sentiment shared by many: the water trucks intended to dampen the red loam and sand are operating on an irregular schedule. Residents claim the road is only “soaked” occasionally, leaving long intervals where the dust clouds become unbearable.
- Washing Concrete: Along the Railway Embankment, it is now a common sight to see business owners power-washing their walkways multiple times a day to prevent the accumulation of silt.
Project Scope: A Massive Undertaking
The China Railway First Group contract involves more than just paving; it is a complete reimagining of the East Coast corridor:
- Four-Lane Expansion: Stretching across the heavily populated East Coast embankment.
- Bridge Reconstruction: Crucial works are ongoing in Success, LBI, Mon Repos, and Foulis to accommodate the increased traffic weight and volume.
The Health Toll
Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to the fine particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) common on construction sites can lead to:
- Respiratory Distress: Aggravation of asthma and bronchitis.
- Ocular Irritation: Chronic “red eye” and itching reported by drivers.
- Skin Conditions: Dermatitis from the abrasive nature of road-building materials.
As the “flagship” project moves forward, the community of Plaisance is calling for a formal intervention by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ministry of Public Works to enforce stricter OHS (Occupational Health and Safety) and environmental protocols on the contractors.
