Remedial work conducted at Wakenaam sea defence – CDC monitoring situation
DPI, Guyana, Sunday, 17 June, 2018
Director General (ag) of the Civil Defense Commission (CDC), Lt. Col. Kester Craig and other officials are currently in the villages of San Souci and Melville, Wakenaam assessing the situation following an early morning flood.
High tide exacerbated by a breach in the sea defense resulted in the homes of residents in the two areas being inundated.
Regional Executive Officer, Denis Jaikaran said the region responded swiftly and is presently providing support to the 12 severely affected residents. Thirty-seven (37) residents suffered minor losses.
Jaikaran believes the contractor should stand the full cost of compensation for conducting substandard work.
Lt. Col. Craig said the CDC will be providing cleaning supplies to residents as well as supporting the regional administration in its efforts.
Thus far, there have been no reports of illnesses and the health centre is providing residents with assistance.
It is the first time the CDC has been able to respond and provide supplies on the same day.
The CDC’s acting director said the region’s response is testimony to the efficiency of the Regional Disaster Risk Management plan implemented two years ago.
He informed that the Public Health Ministry will be on standby in the event of any outbreak of vector borne diseases.
Engineers from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure are on the ground conducting remedial works since another high tide is expected this evening.
The situation is being monitored and supplies are enroute to the island. It is the first time the CDC has been able to respond and provide supplies on the same day.
By: Stacy Carmichael
Images: Stacy Carmichael