JAMAICA | Potential Disaster in Low-Lying Areas of Western St. Andrew, Hylton calls for help

Kingston, Jamaica. November 23, 2023: Member of Parliament (MP) for Western St. Andrew, Anthony Hylton, has issued a fervent appeal to the government, emphasizing the critical need for immediate action to avert a potential disaster in several communities within his constituency. 

The areas under imminent threat include Waterhouse, Seaview Gardens, Riverton Meadows, and New Haven, where the persistent risk of flooding demands urgent corrective measures.

The Member of Parliament, in a statement today, stressed the gravity of the situation, particularly following last week's heavy rainfall, which worsened the already precarious condition of the Sandy Gully. 

Referring to the issue as a "grey rhinoceros" during his recent contribution to the State of the Constituency debate, he highlighted the magnitude of the problem that has been neglected for six years and poses a risk to the communities and the Port of Kingston. 

Despite continuous pleas from citizens and himself, Mr. Hylton expressed disappointment in the lack of response from responsible government agencies. 

Mr. Hylton said to date there has been no action to the situation which could have catastrophic consequences for lives and property in these communities. 

He said last week’s rains finally breached the Sandy Gully and the threat to Waterhouse, Seaview Gardens, Riverton Meadow and the commercial areas is now heightened. He said the cost to clean the gully far outweighs the potential disaster, loss of lives and health risks.

The MP said the lack of dredging of the Duhaney and Fresh rivers is also resulting in worsening conditions in New Haven. The problem is even worsened by the blocked culverts at Six Miles threatening many homes in that community. 

“These are not issues to be taken lightly as the Hurricane season is not yet over and adverse weather systems are still active in the Caribbean”, he said.

As the threat looms large, the call for immediate action resonates not only as a matter of public safety but as a crucial responsibility to safeguard the well-being and livelihoods of the affected communities. 

The citizens of Western St. Andrew await a decisive and proactive stance from the government to address this pressing issue before the situation escalates further.

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