SEVERAL COMMUNITIES AND homes have once again been flooded because of heavy rains caused by Tropical Storm Wilma.
All the communities seemed to have the same concerns: blocked drains, poor drainage, drains needing maintenance or cleaning or repair. It is obvious that drainage is a problem that needs to be seriously addressed.
Areas which face serious drainage problems are not unknown to the authorities. It seems with every storm or heavy rainfall, the media report on the same areas with the same concerns.
The drainage problems are common knowledge yet little is being done to help the affected areas. Frankly, it is unfair for Jamaicans who pay taxes every month for good roads, drainage, health care and other amenities to continue to suffer without these things. The fact is the agencies given the responsibility to provide these amenities need to do better.
The lead story in today's STAR speaks about two property owners who fear their homes could be destroyed because of flood waters.
This is an example of the impact poor drainage has on the life of the ordinary Jamaican. These two homeowners are likely to be faced with a bill to repair their yards or home and also to implement measures to prevent further damage.
One wonders how much longer Jamaicans must suffer through hurricanes and storms without the proper infrastructure. The Government has failed in its responsibility to provide proper drainage and if this is not corrected, the loss will not only be property but lives.
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