Earl Moxam, Senior Gleaner Writer
IT WILL cost the Government an estimated $37 million to bring a lasting solution to the overflowing of several ponds in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth, which has resulted in nearby homes being flooded on a regular basis in recent years.
That is the figure disclosed by Dean Peart, Minister of Land and Environment, who has been spearheading efforts to correct the problem.
In the latest and most severe incident, during the passage of Hurricane Wilma last month, dozens of families in Great Bay and a few in Calabash Bay were forced to flee their homes, as heavy rains sent the water levels in Great Pond and Long Pond rising beyond the established confines of the ponds, flooding nearby roads and homes.
Many families have not yet been able to return home.
Following detailed examination of the situation by experts sent into the community by the land and environment ministry, a recommendation was submitted to Cabinet, and, according to Peart, there is now consensus on the way forward.
He said the solution arrived at was to build canals linking all the ponds in a single network, which would then be drained into the sea via larger canals.
That approach would also be in keeping with recommendations that have emanated from community groups such as the Treasure Beach Foundation, and the Great Bay Development Association.
"The Member of Parliament for the area, Donald Buchanan, and I have proposed that the Treasure Beach situation be given priority treatment, and so that project is to be placed on a short list for quick action along with Mandela Highway and Big Pond in St. Catherine," Mr. Peart said.
He added that the package of three priority projects is to be submitted for Cabinet approval on December 5.
