Residents of St. Cuthbert’s Mission recently raised several longstanding issues affecting the community with a We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) team and the Leader of the Opposition, Azruddin Mohamed including the state of the main access road.
A release from WIN said that the residents expressed concern over the incomplete state of the village’s main access road, which currently consists largely of loose crusher run. The road has become a safety hazard for both residents and visitors, particularly during periods of rainfall, as the loose stones cause vehicles to skid.
WIN said that community members reported that numerous motor vehicle accidents have occurred because of the road conditions. Stones propelled by passing vehicles have also damaged windscreens and pose a risk of injury to motorists, passengers, and pedestrians.
The community is calling for the road project to be completed with a proper paved surface and for the relevant authorities to provide a clear timeline for its completion.
WIN said that residents also highlighted the deteriorating condition of the living quarters for both primary and secondary school teachers, contending that the facilities are no longer suitable for occupancy. As a result, several teachers who require accommodation are unable to reside there.
Concern was also raised about the secondary school teachers’ apartments, which have design and safety deficiencies. Each apartment has only one entrance and a single window, resulting in poor ventilation, inadequate natural lighting, and limited emergency escape options.
Concerns were also raised about the Home Economics Block. Construction of the Block behind the secondary school began in January 2024 and continued until approximately June 2024, after which all work ceased. Since then, residents say they have received no explanation from the contractor or the relevant authorities regarding the suspension of the project or its expected completion date.
Residents also complained about the condition of the police station, stating that it does not provide suitable living or working accommodations for police officers.
The community also emphasized the urgent need for routine maintenance of the village’s internal roads and bridges. The villagers told WIN that many have deteriorated over time, making travel difficult, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
Residents also reported that St. Cuthbert’s Mission continues to experience inadequate and unreliable electricity.
“Even under normal circumstances, electricity is available for only approximately four hours each day, which is insufficient to meet the needs of households, schools, businesses, healthcare services, and communication. They further reported that, for nearly the past month, the community has been without electricity altogether”, the release added.
WIN called on the authorities to address these concerns without further delay.
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