THE EDITOR, Sir:
ANY GOVERNMENT should enforce stricter control of land use.
Whenever there are natural disasters such as inclement weather that brings continuous torrential rain, the residents who live in flood-prone areas, suffer severely from widespread devastation which causes the loss of life and property.
Authorities need to place greater emphasis on minimising damage from these disasters.
They should restrict construction of all buildings on sites not approved and not in conformity with the building codes. All high-risk communities that are susceptible to flooding should be relocated and the areas declared non-habitable.
Mr. Editor, it is time that the Government take a closer look at land utilisation policies and develop and employ strategies to deal with any breaches.
Since the recent flooding from Hurricane Wilma, we have seen and heard of the devastation throughout the country and in particular, Kennedy Grove Housing settlement in Clarendon.
The residents there are resolute in taking the Government to court for their losses and suffering.
Over the years Jamaica has experienced hurricanes and tropical storms which left serious damage to properties and the loss of lives and I cannot recall that there had been any threats to take the Government or its agents to court.
We cannot fight against the forces of nature, but we can fight against the forces of man.
I am, etc.,
E.N. PERKINS
Mandeville
