Power company says Corentyne storm caused major damage

Guyana Power and Light (GPL) says it suffered major damage as a consequence of a powerful storm which raked the Upper Corentyne on Sunday knocking down power poles and ripping off roofing sheets.

In a statement yesterday, GPL said in some cases outages caused by the storm lasted until Tuesday at 9 pm.

GPL said it sustained major damage to its primary and secondary networks. It said that while the major effect of the stormy weather was the uprooting and breaking of both primary and secondary poles, the network was also disrupted by roofing sheets, and in one case at Tain, a section of a roof, being blown onto the lines.

Nineteen primary poles were uprooted, while numerous leaning and three fallen secondary poles were among the damage registered. Major damage, GPL said, occurred in the Black Bush Polder area. Ten primary poles had to be replanted and reinforced. Restoration of power to this area began at 2:30 a.m. on Monday and was completed by 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday July 8, 2014.

Among the areas that suffered disruptions are Williamsburg, Tain, Friendship, Nos 53-61 villages, Courtlandt, No 61-75 villages, Fyrish, Black Bush Polder and Line Path.

Crews, GPL said are currently engaged in mopping up operations and addressing isolated cases. The public is advised to report emergencies to the following numbers: Demerara- 2264015/6, Berbice 333-2186 and Essequibo 777-5015.