The water systems in Hiowa, Quarrie, and Moco Moco will be up for a needs assessment in the wake of flooding in these and other villages in Central Rupununi. Minister of Housing and Water, the Hon. Collin D Croal on Saturday, held community meetings in these three villages where he was provided with information relating to the impact of the flooding situation.
In the community of Quarrie, some 57 farms have been completely inundated with floodwater as a result of heavy rainfall. Additionally, some access roads are also flooding making access difficult. At Moco Moco several farmers also complained that their cash crops have been destroyed.
Meanwhile, Minister Croal has assured that the government stands ready to bring relief to flood-affected families through long and short-term interventions. Already, he noted that hampers, inclusive of cleaning and sanitization supplies will be distributed to residents of the affected communities.
Referencing the surge in Malaria and Dengue Fever, the Minister spoke of the measures to be undertaken to address these and other health issues that may arise as a result of the flooding. Residents were also updated on the Government’s latest education delivery initiative, the GOAL scholarship.
The Minister encouraged persons to take advantage of the initiative, noting that only positive outcomes can be derived from this initiative. He noted that education and personal development will ultimately aid in a better community.
Also, a timely donation of twenty-four electronic tablets will be made to these communities by R. Kissoon Contracting Services to students preparing for National Grade Six and CSEC.
This initiative, he added will also contribute to rebuilding village economies since, upon completion of the scholarship, the person can work and serve in their respective village. This he noted will take away from coastlands taking up employment opportunities in the villages. Additionally, a call was made for persons to play their part in helping to contain the spread of covid-19 by taking the vaccine.
The Minister will continue a two-day outreach in several other communities tomorrow, namely, Parishara, Quatata, Kaicumbay, and Yupukari. These outreaches will determine the needs of residents and if relocation or any other type of emergency relief is needed.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, the Hon. Nigel Dharamlall and Minister of Natural Resources, the Hon. Vickram Bharat is also in region nine visiting communities in South, Deep South, and North Rupununi conducting similar exercises.
Photos: Sydel Thomas CHPA PR Dept.