Concrete drains are being constructed along Woolford Avenue as part of the government’s efforts to improve drainage and reduce flooding ahead of the reopening of schools.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, said the works are expected to improve water retention and flow along the roadway, while reducing the daily impact of flooding.
“So, you are going to get more retention in the drains. More water will be held here so less flooding, better flow, less messiness every day post these drains,” she said.
She further added that drainage works are expected to be completed by Sunday, after which efforts will be made to clean the roadway.
As a result, the minister acknowledged the inconvenience caused to teachers and parents preparing for the school’s reopening.
“I know there are some parents and teachers who had to do some preschool opening preparation. You may have been irritated, and I get that. We apologize,” the minister said.
In addition to these works, rehabilitation and expansion works are ongoing at several schools including North Georgetown Secondary School, St Joseph High School and other national schools.
The Bishop’s High School library is expected to be completed shortly, while work is also progressing on the western wing of Queen’s College.
The local government minister noted that St Joseph’s High School and St Rose’s High School have already benefited from rehabilitation works, while schools including St Winifred’s, East Ruimveldt and North Ruimveldt have also been upgraded.
She said the investments reflect the government’s focus on improving the learning environments for children.
“All because we believe our children are our future,” Minister Manickchand said.