Mayor of Georgetown Alfred Mentore is calling on the Government to ensure that proper drainage infrastructure is incorporated into ongoing works to reshape the city’s green spaces and avenues.
In recent months, several avenues across Georgetown, which were once canals and later transformed into walkways, have seen the removal of much of the greenery that previously lined their shoulders. Questions have been raised as to why trees were cut down. The government has thus far not provided an explanation.
Speaking yesterday with Kiskadee Watch, Mentore said he is not opposed to the facelift works but believes the projects should include comprehensive drainage solutions and greater involvement of the Mayor and City Council.
“About all the avenues from Middle Street to Lamaha and Camp need to be catered for with drainage,” Mentore said.
He said that the Government should develop a system that allows excess water to flow into strategically placed manholes before being directed into the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) storage system.
The Mayor further stressed the need for a scientifically designed layout.
“While capping, they should create drainage alongside these spaces that also allows for excess water to drain back into the Demerara River,” he stated.
Mentore’s comments come days after President Irfaan Ali announced plans to temporarily close selected avenues in Georgetown and other urban centres to create dedicated spaces for families to exercise, interact and reconnect away from digital devices.
According to the President, digital platforms are increasingly influencing how young people think, behave and spend their free time.
President Ali said children who spend extensive periods on electronic devices often develop different interests and expectations compared to those exposed to outdoor play, sports and direct social interaction.
As part of the initiative, the President revealed plans to repurpose public spaces to encourage healthier lifestyles and stronger family engagement.
“That is why, after we complete the building of all of these avenues across Georgetown, I intend to shut down some of these avenues between 5:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. every morning so families can come out and walk around the avenue, exercise, ride and spend time together,” he announced, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI).
The President said the concept would also extend to Sundays.
“I intend to also shut down some important avenues across the city and around different urban centres every Sunday morning from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for families to come out, for local food to be there, for local experiences to be there, and for culture to be there,” he stated.
President Ali said the Government expects to roll out the initiative within the next two to three months as improvements to public spaces continue, with the aim of fostering stronger family bonds and healthier routines.
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