RHONDOR DOWLAT
Senior Reporter
rhondor.dowlat@guardian.co.tt
The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) of Trinidad and Tobago has collaborated with the Ministry of Works and Transport (MOWT) to carry out critical flood mitigation work at Real Spring, Valsayn.
According to a release issued by the HDC on Thursday in response to Guardian's article which highlighted residents' concerns of flooding in the area, the HDC said there's coordinated activities aimed at strengthening the community's resilience against potential flooding and protecting our residents' well-being.
"The HDC and the MOWT recognise the importance of proactive measures to minimise flood risks and protect our citizens. The joint initiative will primarily focus on river clearing works along the southern and western watercourses, which have been identified as critical areas in need of immediate attention," the HDC said.
During a significant meeting held on November 1, 2022, key stakeholders including Adrian Leonce MP, Minister in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Rohan Sinanan, Minister of Works and Transport, Noel Garcia, HDC's Chairman and Jayselle McFarlane, HDC's Managing Director, came together to address the pressing issue of flood mitigation in Real Spring.
The HDC noted that this meeting brought together experts from HDC and government officials to discuss and strategise effective measures to minimise the impact of flooding on the community, "These collaborative efforts and valuable insights shared during this meeting have been instrumental in shaping the ongoing partnership between the HDC and the MOWT, ultimately leading to the implementation of comprehensive flood mitigation works in the development."
It also disclosed that on June 8, 2023, the Drainage Division of the MOWT started comprehensive river clearing works, "This essential process will optimise water flow, mitigate potential blockages, and alleviate flood-prone conditions in the area. By strategically removing structures or objects within the river reserve, MOWT aims to enhance the effectiveness of these flood mitigation efforts."
To facilitate the river-clearing works, the HDC urged affected residents to take the following actions:
- Identify any structures or objects, such as fences, sheds, debris, etc. that are within the river reserve;
- Safely remove these structures or objects from the river reserve area by Friday, June 30, 2023;
- Store or relocate the removed structures or objects in a safe and appropriate manner.
A staking out exercise along Town Houses (TH) 65A to 68C, will be conducted by the HDC's Contractor.
Residents will be further advised when this will be conducted, "This is an essential step in facilitating the dredging and desilting of the watercourse, as well as the construction of an embankment by the Drainage Division of the MOWT. These works form a crucial part of the preventative measures in place to mitigate potential flood risks in the area, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in the event of rising water levels."
Additionally, during a meeting held on June 7, the HDC said that its Contractor was reminded of their responsibility to address the road depressions within the development, "It was emphasised that they should implement temporary measures to maintain the roads until the completion of all infrastructure works, at which point the site will be paved, ensuring a smooth and durable road network for the community."
"During this period, residents situated along the southern and western watercourses may be required to remove structures or objects that encroach upon the river reserve area. We kindly request their full cooperation in this regard to ensure unobstructed water flow and maximise the overall safety of the community. The Corporation and the MOWT are committed to working closely with residents, providing guidance and support throughout the process," the HDC said.
"We understand that temporary inconveniences may arise, but they are crucial for the collective well-being and long-term safety of our community. The HDC and the MOWT appreciate the understanding, support, and cooperation of all residents during this significant endeavour," it added.