A $40M pontoon which will be used to dredge blocked outfall channels along the Coast was on Sunday handed over to the Agriculture ministry. 
According to a Govern-ment Information Agency (GINA) press release Minster Robert Persaud witnessed the handing over of the pontoon by Courtney Benn, Managing Director of Courtney Benn Contracting Services.

Persaud said as a result of the current policy decision to reactivate and open new sluices, it is very critical to clear the build-up of sedimentation that is occurring at the sluices along the Coast. “With the acquisition of a pontoon it will be convenient, cost effective and allow for greater efficiency and better draining,” he said as the channels have to be cleared three times per year.

The pontoon manufactured by Courtney Benn Contracting Service for the desilting of outfall channels along the coast. (GINA photo)

Benn said the pontoon was made from materials imported from Miami. He said it took about six months to complete.

According to GINA the government funded the cost of the pontoon which will also accommodate heavy-duty equipment such as excavators while they execute drainage works. Additionally, the pontoons will allow the National Drainage and Irriga-tion Authority (NDIA) to undertake more work without incurring exorbitant costs, reducing the use of pumps for drainage at channels affected by sedimentation.