The Editor, Sir:

This is an open letter to Minister of Works Mike Henry.

Dear Minister Henry

I respectfully draw your attention to the recent tragedy at the Cassia Park Gully in which two people perished as the vehicle in which they were driving was washed away while they attempted to cross the ford during the flood rains.

This of course was only one of several repeated incidents at that and other dangerous gullies in our city. Another typical example include the death of Dr Cleo Taylor's wife and children some years ago while they attempted to cross the Grant's Pen gully.

What on Earth could prevent our "caring authorities" from installing simple bridges over these death traps and eyesores? It cannot be engineering impossibilities! Nor should financial constraints be entertained, as any financial equation with such human tragedy would compromise the sanctity of human life.

Good advice

It is necessary, but not sufficient to advise people not to cross these gullies during flood rains. It is difficult to excuse from blame those in leadership and authority for these repeated gruesome losses of life under such preventable circumstances.

I therefore appeal to you, as I have appealed to your predecessors, to deal with this matter during your first term in office. I have confidence in your proactive manner of management.

I feel sure you won't wait for another soul to be taken in this frightful manner.

I am, etc.,

Dr LLOYD A. COLE, JP

139 Old Hope Road