The Government of Guyana will be expending $160 million to enhance the structural integrity of sea defences in Prospect, Mahaicony.
Region Five Chairman Vickchand Ramphal had told Stabroek News earlier this month that more than 600 farmers became vulnerable after critical sea defences along the village were washed away due to intense high tides and constant overtopping.
He said that there was an immediate need for extensive sea defence works in the area.
Head of the Sea and River Defence Department of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Kevin Samad, had said that the works were expected to begin shortly as they were awaiting the signing of the contracts.
According to a report yesterday from the Department of Public Information (DPI), the government has awarded the $160 million contract in an effort to enhance the structural integrity of the sea defences in the village.
The project will see the construction of 329 metres of riprap defences along the shoreline and will be a major project for the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s work programme for this year, of which almost $2 billion has been allocated for sea defence works.
The construction is estimated to be completed within six months from its starting date and the riprap structures are expected to significantly reduce the threats of flooding in the area and the surrounding villages.
