mobile pump has been redeployed to Helena, Mahaica to support drainage and irrigation intervention activities in areas affected by heavy rainfall.

A Government Information Agency (GINA) press release said Minister of Agriculture Robert Persaud and acting Chief Executive Officer at the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Lionel Wordsworth met with farmers and residents on Tuesday to discuss additional aids for the area.

The NDIA has dispatched a large, mobile pump to the area to replace two tractor-driven pumps that farmers had used earlier this week. This will ensure faster discharge of the excess water in the community.

Farmers voiced concerns about the vandalism of dams and other drainage structures that cause water from the backlands to flood the agricultural areas. Residents were urged to desist from such activities and to report signs of vandalism to the police.

Farmers also spoke about the non-occupancy of some privately owned estates which have contributed to blockages in the koker. The NDIA decided to close the blocked kokers and urged fishermen to desist from mooring their boats in the channels as it impedes drainage.

GINA also said the NDIA and the Region Four administration are undertaking repairs to the Supply/Belmont sluice.