By: Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News |
Residents of South Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara, can now look forward to a healthier and safer Christmas following the long-awaited clearing of clogged alleyways that had left the community submerged in stagnant water for weeks.
The issue, first highlighted by Nightly News approximately four weeks ago, saw residents grappling with sewage-contaminated water pooling in key drainage canals. The stagnant water posed serious health risks, damaged homes, and disrupted daily life across the community.
According to residents, the flooding was triggered by infrastructure works carried out by a private businessman, which blocked a vital drainage canal running through public alleyways. City Engineer Colvern Venture had since confirmed that the Mayor and City Council’s engineering department issued a cease-work order, noting that the construction was unlawfully taking place on public access routes.
Despite this intervention, the problem persisted, leaving residents increasingly frustrated. Among those affected was Kamini Sookdeo, who, along with other residents, repeatedly voiced concerns about the unsanitary and hazardous conditions.
Relief finally came when the Ministry of Local Government deployed excavators to the area to remove sand, debris, and other blockages from the drainage system. The cleanup has restored proper water flow and significantly reduced the health risks faced by residents.
The breakthrough followed a visit to the community by We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Members of Parliament Azruddin Mohamed and Vishnu Panday, who met with residents and observed the conditions firsthand. Mohamed described the situation as unacceptable, stating that no citizen should be forced to live under such circumstances.
Shortly after the visit, the Ministry of Local Government, under the direction of Deputy Permanent Secretary Josh Khanai, dispatched heavy equipment to clear the canal—bringing an end to weeks of flooding and uncertainty.
Residents say the intervention has transformed their community, allowing families to prepare for the Christmas season without fear of health hazards or further damage to their properties.
