Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Friday afternoon visited Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara to meet with residents and farmers and assess concerns affecting the community, particularly drainage, agricultural access and the use of public reserves.
A release from the Ministry of Agriculture said that during a walk-through of the area, Mustapha observed that the reserves where an interlocking drainage system previously existed have largely been occupied by residents, leaving the area without an effective drainage network. He said this has contributed to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
Mustapha said a detailed assessment will be conducted and a report prepared for submission to President Irfaan Ali, outlining the situation and possible interventions. During the engagement, cattle farmers also raised concerns about the need to improve drainage in their pastures, while residents called for the clearing of dams that have been occupied for cultivation.
Mustapha said the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) has been asked to issue notices to persons cultivating on the dams. Those persons will be allowed to harvest their existing crops but will not be allowed to replant.
The Minister said Government will work with the affected farmers to identify suitable plots of land where they can continue their agricultural activities, while ensuring that the dams and other public spaces are restored for their intended use.
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