Blog

The Government of Guyana through a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Housing, Ministry of Agriculture, and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) will be undertaking a Georgetown Drainage Improvement Project that is geared towards improving the drainage infrastructure in the city to prevent flooding.

On November 7, Minister of Housing, Hon. Collin Croal; Chief Development Planner for the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), Ms. Germene Stewart; Chairman of the NDIA, Mr. Lionel Wordsworth, and Chief Sea and River Defence Officer at the Ministry of Public Works, Mr. Kevin Samad along with representatives from related state agencies launched the consultations for the project with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) at the Chamber Secretariat.

President of the GCCI, Mrs. Kathy S. Smith posited that given the size of the Chamber’s membership, the launch of the consultation with the GCCI was appropriate. “The GCCI is on-board, and we are willing to work with the ministry on this project,” she stated.

Minister Croal provided an overview of the project, which was commenced at the directive of His Excellency, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, noting that the consultation is stage one. “It’s reviewing what we have, what improvements can be done, what enhancements can be done, and then overall…the beautification of the city.”

The Minister’s team provided insights into the drainage structure and challenges being experienced in the city—noting that the pre-existing infrastructure cannot serve current needs. It was noted that existing studies were reviewed and data collected over the last 35 years shows that the city needs the capacity to drain at least eight inches of water in 24 hours. They also identified flood prone areas and challenges that restrict access to the sluices.

The GCCI was briefed on measures that will need to be taken to embark on this project and the private sector support that is needed.