This approximately 9 000 sq ft pond is a serious concern for one Cane Garden Crescent family.
The pond, created by the recent heavy rains that affected the island is three feet deep in certain areas.
Cane Garden Crescent has had flooding and drainage issues for years, but one resident has a significant concern, which has left her with a localised pond.
With the recent downpours and flash flooding in Barbados, the waters have flowed and impacted many. Ponds have appeared all over the island, some in the usual locations and others taking up residence in unexpected areas. Cane Garden Crescent, St. Thomas has seen its fair share of flooding over the years, but the watercourse which passes through the yards of some, reportedly has developed a blockage down the line, impeding the process of the water running off.
In speaking to The Barbados Advocate, one resident, who wished to remain unnamed, stated that the waters could be as deep as three feet in certain areas and would have usually run off from the yard by now. It has been approximately four weeks since the 9 000 sq ft small pond appeared and the resident stated that the Ministry of Environment and National Beautification had been contacted. The resident followed the instructions given by that ministry to instead contact the Ministry of Transport, Works and Water Resources, which sent personnel to assess the situation. Unfortunately, the verdict was to wait for the water to recede and then deal with the blockage, which was determined to be at the entrance to a cave through which the water would usually drain.
However, the water remains and so do the mosquitoes which are not just being a nuisance, but are a hazard to the health of the members of the household and surrounding neighbours. There also was discussion about a team from the Drainage Unit being dispatched, but the resident explained that no one has contacted them since.
The main concern is the safety of the residents in the area facing the present threat of the mosquitoes with dengue and zika viruses still affecting the island, along with the possibility of more rains and flooding to come. The resident acknowledged the responses of the ministries, but stated that more help is needed to either assist with the drainage of the standing water or to remove the blockage as soon as possible. (AS)