Neville Paul, Gleaner Writer
THE NATIONAL Irrigation Commission (NIC) is set to carry out an in-depth survey of the Vineyard community in southwest St. Elizabeth, following news that several sections are now flooded.
Felton Brown, parish manager for the NIC, said the survey is to identify the most critical drains and canals, and for the preparation of an estimate to carry out cleaning.
"We are going to undertake this survey in an effort to be better able to understand the problems residents of the community are now faced with, in respect of the flooding," he explained.
"We are also going to be looking to determine if there is any way that water can be drained from the community in the future in order to alleviate flooding."
The NIC official said the survey will start shortly and will involve several other communities that are prone to flooding during heavy rains.
His comments were in response to news that several roads and homes in the Vineyard community have been flooded.
A Vineyard community resident, Karen Samms, said that boats have to be used to cross some of the flooded roads in order to have access to taxi service.
"Taxi operators are now fearful to use some roads in the community because their engines might fail while others are cautious of the numerous potholes that have been created," Mrs. Samms lamented. "In addition to the flooding, there is the mosquito nuisance being experienced and this is creating much hardship on the residents."
COMMUNITY IN MORASS
When contacted, disaster preparedness coordinator for the parish, Yvonne Morrison, said that her office had not yet received a report, but added that the community lies on the verge of the morass.
Both Ms. Morrison and Mr. Brown said nothing could be done at this time, due to the high water levels in the area. Mr. Brown further added that even if all the drains in Vineyard were cleaned, sections would still be affected by the floodwaters.
He warned that persons should not play or bathe in the water, as there was the possibility of an epidemic of water-borne diseases and there is the possibility of crocodile sightings with the morass located in close proximity to the community.
